Renewable energy-based electricity grid infrastructure and method of grid infrastructure automation and operation

ABSTRACT

A renewable energy resource management system manages a delivery of a power requirement from a multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation to an intelligent power distribution network. The installation includes multiple renewable energy resource components and is capable of variably and independently generating power from each to microgrids comprising the intelligent power distribution network so that the entire power requirement is satisfied from renewable energy resources. An electricity grid infrastructure is also disclosed in which power production is balanced with power consumption so that power storage requirements are minimized.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED PATENT APPLICATIONS

This application is related to U.S. nonprovisional patent applicationtitled Multi-Resource Renewable Energy Installation and Method OfMaximizing Operational Capacity Of Same, and to US nonprovisional patentapplication titled Energy Management System For Power Transmission To AnIntelligent Electricity Grid From A Multi-Resource Renewable EnergyInstallation, both filed concurrently herewith.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY-SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not applicable.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to renewable energy resources.Specifically, the present invention relates to systems, methods, andapparatuses for supplying the power needs of an intelligent electricitygrid from an entirely-renewable energy resource platform.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

As the interest in power generated from renewable energy resourcesrapidly increases, increasing attention is being focused systems andmethods in which such power produced, transmitted, delivered, andconsumed. Despite technological advances in developing renewable energyresources and in electricity grids, current energy infrastructuresuffers from many limitations that need rapid improvement as demand forsuch power increases, and grid security importance and regulatoryrequirements for use of “green” resources become more prominent.

Power derived from renewable energy such as solar, wind, wave, and solarthermal resources are becoming increasingly relied upon, but eachincludes several limitations that impede them from becoming widespread,low-cost, efficient, and continually viable sources of electricity. Eachis inherently unreliable, owing to factors such as changes in the timeof day and variations in weather conditions that mean that maximizedperformance of components for each resource is very difficult to manage.Combining any of these together proves even more difficult to manage theinherent inefficiencies involved in operating devices and components tomeet energy demand.

Power derived from renewable energy sources is generated both on landand at sea. Offshore energy installations present many complicatedchallenges. The majority of all offshore energy installations areprimarily devoted to carbon-based, non-renewable resources, but each ofsolar power, wind power, wave, and solar thermal-based power can be andare generated from offshore installations. However, implementingoffshore installations are extremely challenging, time-consuming,expensive, and environmentally sensitive. Many issues must addressed bythe energy provider wishing to use an offshore base for generating powerof any kind. Just a few examples of issues that present significantchallenges include storage of power, its transmission to the onshorepower grid, providing power to the offshore installation itself,maintenance, distance from the electricity grid, and exposure to weatherelements. Additionally, building a large-scale multi-resource platformor installation is very expensive and often has a large environmentalimpact footprint, making such an installation a questionable investment.All of these issues can reduce the attractiveness of constructing andoperating such an installation.

Storage issues are a particularly challenging problem attendant totransferring power generated offshore to the onshore electricity grid.The electricity grid itself contains limited inherent facility forstoring electrical energy. Power must be generated constantly to meetuncertain demand, which often results in over-generation (and hencewasted energy) and sometimes results in under-generation (and hencepower failures). Additionally, there is limited facility for storingelectrical energy at the point of generation, particularly in the caseof offshore installations where available space must be maximized andcost and environmental issues are major considerations.

Nonetheless, requirements for buying power generated from “clean” or“green” renewable resources are rapidly increasing. Enhanced ecologicaland environmental awareness, and a desire to reduce energy dependency oncarbon-based fossil fuels and to decrease availability and priceconcerns resulting from exposure to geopolitical concerns, has lead manygovernments to implement regulations that either dictate or imposelimits on the amount of power produced and consumed that is generatedfrom carbon-based or otherwise non-renewable energy sources. Because ofthis, there is a strong and continually developing need for efficientand cost-effective power generated from renewable energy resources.

Furthermore, despite these challenges and many others in the existingtechnology concerning power from renewable resources, there exists astrong need for improved systems and methods of producing, transmitting,distributing and delivering energy so that the needs of power customerscan be satisfied from renewable energy sources. There is also a strongand increasing need for clean, reliable, efficient sources of power thatare not dependent on geopolitical issues and which maximize theavailability of renewable resources to deliver power in real-time asneeded and instructed by “smart” electricity grids. There is further aneed for an energy management network capable of integrating data frommultiple sources that influence the amount of such power available to begenerated and required for delivery to customers of electricity grids.Additionally, there exists a strong need in the art for a platform thatis capable of efficiently-provided power from multiple renewable energyresources that minimize many of the challenges facing energy providers,as well as for electricity grid infrastructure that is capable ofmeeting electricity demand substantially from renewable energyresources, maintaining grid infrastructure integrity against increasingpublic security concerns, and maximizing operational efficiency andcapacity to reduce the costs associated with the many inherentinefficiencies with renewable energy resources.

It is accordingly one object of the present invention to provide arenewable energy resource management system and method of managing powerdistribution from a renewable resource provider to an intelligent powerdistribution network, that addresses many of the problems and challengesfacing the buyers and sellers of power derived from renewable energyresources such as wind, solar, wave, and solar thermal energy, and withgenerating, transmitting and distributing power to meet the capacity ofa developing, sophisticated, and intelligent electricity gridinfrastructure. It is a further object of the present invention toprovide a multi-resource renewable energy installation and method ofoperation that addresses problems and challenges with generating powerfrom renewable energy resources in an efficient and cost-effectivemanner to meet the substantially increasing demand, need, andrequirement for power from such resources. It is yet another object ofthe present invention to provide an improved electricity gridinfrastructure, and methods of operating and automating the same, thataddress the problems and challenges associated with meeting electricitydemand substantially from renewable energy resources, maintaining gridinfrastructure security, and maximizing operational efficiency andcapacity to meet real-time power demands of grid customers.

It will be apparent to those of skill in the art that one would be notbe motivated to combine existing art, and one would not consider itreasonable to try to combine existing art, to arrive at the teachings ofthe present invention. There are many reasons why existing technologyteaches against the disclosures of the present invention. For example,there are inherent market biases favoring the use of existing,non-renewable energy resources. Existing energy productioninfrastructure strongly favors the use of non-renewable energyresources, and the costs of generating power from renewable energyresources are far higher, despite the availability of and ease withwhich wind, solar, wave, and solar thermal energy can be obtained.Additionally, energy commodity prices and weather conditions fluctuatewidely, making it very difficult and often prohibitively expensive toefficiently generate, transmit, and distribute power derived fromrenewable energy resources. These fluctuations, and the inherentinefficiencies resulting from them in utilizing renewable resources,make it difficult for providers to justify investing in theinfrastructure needed to develop, transmit, and distribute power fromrenewable energy resources. This includes investing in and buildingoffshore installations, whether dedicated to a single renewable resourceor hosting multiple components that generate power from severaldifferent renewable resources in the same location. It will therefore bereadily apparent based on all of the above that it would not be obviousto combine any of the teachings of the prior art to arrive at thespecific technological advances discussed herein.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention discloses, in one aspect thereof, an energymanagement system that presents an operational infrastructure formanaging the generation, transmission, delivery, and distribution ofpower to “smart” electricity topologies derived from multiple renewableenergy resources. The infrastructure is fully network-connected in adistributed computing environment, and enables utilities and providersto respond to peak demand loads more effectively and efficiently,balance power production with power consumption, and supply powerconsumers entirely from multiple renewable resources.

In another aspect of the present invention, a multi-resource renewableenergy installation provides the ability to efficiently produce powerfrom multiple renewable energy resources in a single location. Themulti-resource renewable energy installation is a fullynetwork-connected, distributed platform for producing power frommultiple renewable energy resources and maintaining an efficientoperational capacity of each such resource to transmit and deliverreal-time power demands of customers that balances power production toconsumption to minimize both supply and demand-side power storagerequirements.

In a further aspect, the present invention discloses an innovativeelectricity grid infrastructure that enables robust and dynamicmulti-directional communications and automated decision-making systemsto provide electricity grid operators with multiple capabilities toefficiently generate, transmit, deliver and distribute power. Theelectricity grid infrastructure enables both supply and demand-sideimprovements in responding to peak demand loads, balancing andmaintaining power production with power consumption to minimize gridstorage requirements, re-configuring assets for power production andre-routing power for consumption as needed, and supplying power demandentirely from multiple renewable energy resources.

Together, the aspects of the present invention provide significantimprovements and advances in systems and methods in which power isproduced, transmitted, delivered and distributed. The present inventiontherefore incorporates and integrates concepts in producing power fromrenewable, non carbon-based energy resources, transmitting anddistributing power to increasingly interconnected and intelligentelectricity grids, and delivering power to end consumers, as discussedherein.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an electricity gridinfrastructure comprises a multi-resource offshore renewable energyplatform having a plurality of wind turbines, a plurality ofphotovoltaic modules mounted on at least one tracker mounting system, aplurality of wave turbines, and a plurality of high-temperature solarthermal collectors mounted on at least one tracker mounting systemcoupled thereto, each capable of producing power from a renewable energyresource, a plurality of microgrids separately coupled to and forming anintelligent power distribution network, a distributed load managementsystem at least configured to settle a transfer of a power requirementfor a specific period of time from the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy platform to be distributed to each microgrid in the plurality ofmicrogrids so that the power requirement is satisfied entirely frompower produced from a renewable resource, and a transmission systemcomprising a sub-surface high voltage direct current transmission linkbetween the multi-resource offshore renewable energy platform and theintelligent power distribution network over which the power requirementis delivered, the transmission system including a plurality of voltagesource converters connecting a power output circuit of each wind turbinein the plurality of wind turbines, each photovoltaic module in theplurality of photovoltaic modules, each wave turbine in the plurality ofwave turbines, and each high-temperature solar thermal collector in theplurality of high-temperature solar thermal collectors to a commondirect current bus to provide the high voltage direct currenttransmission link with rectified alternating current power output anddirect current power output regardless of whether a power output circuitproduces alternating current or direct current.

In another embodiment of the present invention, a method of automatingan electricity grid comprises determining a power requirement of aplurality of microgrids each having coupled thereto one or more powercustomers who continually communicate to a microgrid control system foreach microgrid a power need composed of at least a usage type, a usageamount, and a fluctuation tolerance for a specific period of time,determining a renewable energy power production capacity of a pluralityof renewable energy resource components at a multi-resource offshorerenewable energy platform each representing at least one renewableenergy resource and each comprised of an array of apparatuses having anindependently and variably adjustable level of operation in response to,for the specific period of time, the power requirement and one or moreof a commodity price forecast for each renewable energy resource, ameteorological conditions forecast for each renewable energy resource,and an operational availability of each apparatus, each apparatuscontinually communicating an operational availability to one or morerenewable energy resource control systems, producing a power output fromone or more of the renewable energy resource components, assessing thepower output of each of the one or more renewable energy resourcecomponent and independently and variably adjusting the level ofoperation of each of the one or more renewable energy resource componentto maximize operational efficiency and to balance the renewable resourceenergy power production capacity at the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy platform to the power requirement of the plurality ofmicrogrids, wherein assessing the power output includes integrating atransmission control system coupled to at least monitor the power outputof each of the one or more renewable energy resource component andcompare a combined power output to the power requirement, and connectingthe multi-resource offshore renewable energy platform with anintelligent power distribution network over a high voltage directcurrent transmission link to transfer a combined power output of eachrenewable energy resource component to a receiving location fordistribution to the plurality of microgrids.

Another embodiment, the present invention discloses a renewableenergy-based electricity grid in which power consumption issubstantially balanced to power output, comprising at least one powercustomer having at least one receiving location, an intelligent powerdistribution network to which the at the least one power customer iscoupled on a second end, and the least one receiving location is coupledon a first end, the receiving location configured to direct an amount ofpower to be consumed to the at least one customer in response to aninstruction from a load control module that determines the aggregateamount of power to be consumed for a specific period of time from datacollected from continual assessment of power usage by the at least onepower consumer, a plurality of renewable resource energy-based powersources coupled to an offshore renewable energy platform each capable ofindependently and variably producing a power output so that eachoperates at a maximum operational efficiency creating a combined poweroutput that is substantially balanced with the amount of power to beconsumed, so that the amount of power to be consumer is producedentirely from the renewable resource energy-based power sources and sothat a power storage requirement at the offshore renewable energyresource platform and at the least one receiving location are minimizedfor every transfer of the combined power output, the maximum operationalefficiency of each renewable resource energy-based power sourcedetermined by a power generation module in response to a plurality ofvariables that at least include, for the specific period of time, arenewable energy resource commodity price model for each renewableresource energy-based power source, a meteorological conditions model ata location of the offshore renewable energy resource platform for eachrenewable resource energy-based power source, the plurality of renewableresource energy-based power sources including an array of wind turbines,an array of photovoltaic modules, an array of wave turbines, and anarray of high temperature solar thermal collectors, and a high-voltagedirect current transmission system having a plurality of voltage sourceconverters coupling power output circuits of each renewable resourceenergy-based power sources to a common direct current bus, thetransmission system linking the offshore renewable energy platform andthe at least one receiving location of the intelligent powerdistribution network over which the combined power output istransferred.

Other embodiments, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following description of the embodiments, takentogether with the accompanying drawings, which illustrate, by way ofexample, the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate several embodiments of theinvention and together with the description, serve to explain theprinciples of the invention.

FIG. 1 is a system diagram of a renewable resource energy managementsystem according to one embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 2A is a conceptual diagram of components in a power distributionmodule in a renewable resource energy management system;

FIG. 2B is a conceptual diagram of components in a power generationmodule in a renewable resource energy management system;

FIG. 2C is a conceptual diagram of components in a power settlementmodule in a renewable resource energy management system;

FIG. 2D is a conceptual diagram of components in a power transmissionmodule in a renewable resource energy management system;

FIG. 3 is a system diagram of an electricity grid infrastructureaccording to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 4 is a system diagram of a multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation according to another embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5 is a diagram of power output circuits from a multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation connected to a power transmissionsystem according to the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a perspective plan view of a multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation and electricity grid infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation and electricity grid infrastructure according to oneembodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

In the following description of the present invention reference is madeto the accompanying figures which form a part thereof, and in which isshown, by way of illustration, exemplary embodiments illustrating theprinciples of the present invention and how it is practiced. Otherembodiments will be utilized to practice the present invention andstructural and functional changes will be made thereto without departingfrom the scope of the present invention.

The present invention discloses an energy management system and methodfor power transmission to an intelligent electricity grid from amulti-resource renewable energy platform, an offshore multi-resourcerenewable energy installation and method of maximizing its operationalcapacity, and a renewable energy-based electricity grid infrastructureand method of its operation and automation. Each of these embodimentsachieves one or more of the objectives of the present invention.

These include, but are not limited to, reducing costs of producing powerfrom renewable energy resources; maximizing efficient operationalcapacity of multiple sources of power from renewable energy in the samelocation; adapting power production to power consumption to balancepower loads and minimize or eliminate the need for large-scale,expensive power storage components; reducing dependency on non-renewableenergy resources by introducing large-scale power production to meetpower demands entirely from renewable resources; addressing andenhancing a growing need for power grid infrastructure security,stability, and reliability; providing power for future directcurrent-specific electricity grids and different sources of power todifferent power consumers as needed; enhancing electricity gridinfrastructure automation, optimization, risk and outage management,self-checking and self-healing; and integrating distributed grid andcloud computing into the broader infrastructure for producing,transmitting, distributing, and delivery power.

The present invention also provides a framework within which aconsistent flow of power can be delivered as needed while minimizing theimpact of fluctuations that results in peaks and valleys. The presentinvention also allows power from renewable energy resources to be boughtand sold at the low cost and high profit by aggregating multiplevariables to make sure power-producing assets operate efficiently.Within this framework, available power-producing assets do not need toall be operated at the same time or at the same speed, and power isproduced from substantially the most efficient available assets.

FIG. 1 is a system diagram of a renewable resource energy managementsystem 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. Therenewable energy resource management system 100 is configured to, in oneaspect, arrange a power transaction between a buyer and a seller ofpower. The “buyer” is an intelligent power distribution network 102,which may comprise a portion of one or more electricity grids, each ofwhich is composed of a plurality of microgrids 108. Each microgrid 108serves a plurality of power customers 112 who are at leastcommunicatively coupled thereto. The “seller” is one or moremulti-resource offshore renewable energy installations 104 at leastcomprising several renewable energy resource components 116 capable ofgenerating power from multiple sources of renewable energy 114. Manymulti-resource offshore renewable energy installations 104 may becoupled together and included with the scope of the present invention,so that for example ultra-large offshore energy “farms” can be connectedtogether to meet the power needs of the intelligent power distributionnetwork 102 or electricity grid infrastructure 300.

Each renewable energy resource component 116 comprises of a plurality ofapparatuses and systems which perform the work necessary to producepower. Each of these renewable energy resource components 116, and eachapparatus and system therein, are separately controllable and areindependently and variably operable to provide a power requirement 144as determined and instructed by the intelligent power distributionnetwork 102.

The renewable resource energy management system 100 provides a “networkof networks” approach to electricity grid architecture with distributedmaster control capabilities and a wide-area communicationsinfrastructure that integrates electricity grid automation andoptimization concepts with balancing power production to powerconsumption and maximizing efficiency of power production from renewableenergy resources. The renewable resource energy management system 100 ishosted within a distributed computing infrastructure 150 which includesone or more multiple interconnected computing networks 152. System ofmodules and control systems within the present invention that manage andprocess data flow, communicate, and provide the necessary input andoutput signals to perform the various functions discussed herein areresident within this distributed computing infrastructure 150, which maybe thought as incorporating cloud and/or grid computing principles toprovide the operating environment for the present invention.

The renewable resource energy management system 100 includes a modularload management system having plurality of modules each responsible forone or more functional aspects of the present invention. These include apower distribution module 200 responsible for managing the intelligentpower distribution network 102 through a plurality of components, suchas a load control component 202, a renewable energy resource pricing andconditions component 204, and a communications component 206. A powergeneration module 208 is responsible for managing the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104, and also includes aplurality of components, such as a renewable resource efficiencycomponent 210, a renewable resource control component 212, and acommunications component 216. A power settlement module 218 isresponsible for managing actions and communications between theintelligent power distribution network 102, the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104, and a transmission system 106, onesuch action being to arrange a transfer of power from the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104 to the intelligent powerdistribution network 102. The power settlement module 218 includes atransaction resolution component 220, a power production, transmissionand delivery component 222, and a communications component 224. Theplurality of modules further includes a power transmission module 226,responsible for managing the transfer of the power requirement 144 tothe intelligent power distribution network 102. The power transmissionmodule 226 also includes several components, such as a voltage sourceconverter component 220, a transmission control component 228, and acommunications component 234.

At least because of the distributed nature of its master controlcapabilities, the renewable energy resource management system 100 iscapable of modular scalability so that many other modules performingvarious functions may be added and integrated to “plug in” through thedistributed computing infrastructure 150. Examples of modules that couldbe supported by the scalability of the present invention include, butare not limited to, data storage modules capable of accumulating largeamounts of data inherent in such systems, and billing modules providingapplications such as calculation of the complex charges and creditsassociated with time-sensitive purchases and sales of power fromrenewable energy. It is therefore contemplated that any number ofmodules, performing functions of any type, from high-level system tospecifically-designed tasks, may be integrated into the renewable energyresource management system 100.

Communications components 206, 216, 224, and 234 are configured tocommunicate data within the renewable resource energy management system100 and the distributed computing infrastructure 150 using high-capacitywireless broadband networks that enable high-speed multi-directionalInternet protocol communications. Wireless broadband networks may be ofany technical type, such as for example standards-based technologieslike WiMAX, within which various computing networks are capable ofoperating, such as field area networks and SCADA systems. Frequencyspectrums for wireless broadband communications may be licensed orunlicensed in the present invention. In one embodiment, theprivately-hosted and shared distributed computing infrastructure 150 mayutilize one or more licensed, private spectrums as one means ofenhancing communications security in the present invention.

The intelligent power distribution network 102 includes the plurality ofmicrogrids 108, each of which are responsible for one or moreactivities, including communicating with power customers 112 coupledthereto. Each microgrid 108 has at least one controller and a microgridcontrol system 110, which models data flow between each microgrid 108and each of its power customers 112, with each device, meter, or otherapparatus or system coupled to each power customer 112 capable ofpredicting and/or determining customer 112 power usage and needs.Examples of such devices include “smart” power meters which haveresident controllers capable of analyzing and communicating eachcustomer's patterns to microgrids 108 and/or microgrid control systems110.

FIG. 2A is a conceptual diagram of components in a power distributionmodule 200 according to the present invention. The power distributionmodule 200 is a series of processes performed across one or moreprocessors within the renewable resource energy management system 100and is responsible for various distribution-side functions. The loadcontrol component 202 of the power distribution module 200 is configuredto perform multiple functions within the distributed computinginfrastructure 150. One such function is to forecast a power requirement144 of the intelligent power distribution network 102 over any specificor given period of time. This is performed at least in part bycontinually assessing power demand 146 of all microgrids 108 forming theintelligent power distribution network 102, through communications witheach device, apparatus, or controller coupled to each power customer112, and components of each microgrid 108. The load control component202 may perform this continual assessment in a number of ways, such asby requesting data from controllers configured to determine multipledata sets from each apparatus, device or customer 112. This may also beperformed by requesting data from each microgrid 108 via its microgridcontrol system 110.

The load control component 202, and each microgrid 108 and microgridcontrol system 110, are capable of bi-directional communications witheach device, apparatus, or customer 112 to perform “push” capabilitiesto send instructions thereto to perform one or more tasks. This may bethe case where the load control component 202 and microgrid 108 wish toadd or remove devices, apparatuses, or customers 112. This may also bethe case where the load control component 202 and microgrid 108 have aneed to suspend operation of a particular device, apparatus or customer112 for a specific reason. One example of this is a customer 112 who isa semiconductor manufacturing plant requiring a specific level ofpower—where the load control component 202 and/or microgrid 108 sense avoltage spike is about to occur with that customer 112, power deliverycan be re-routed so that the voltage spike is avoided and systemscoupled to the semiconductor plant are not damaged. It is thereforecontemplated that the load control component 202 and/or each microgrid108 and microgrid control system 110 are fully capable of pushingsignals to devices, apparatuses, and customers to perform specific taskswithin the power distribution module 200.

The power demand 146 is comprised of multiple variables which form anoverall picture of the power needs of each customer 112 over a specificperiod of time. The multiple variables are influenced by the type ofpower customer 112 and any particular power needs it may have, itshistory of power usage, and issues like contractual or regulatoryrequirements, where applicable, that impose certain limitations on whatkind of power can be consumed, and when. Power need may therefore bederived from an aggregation of data reflecting different usagecomponents, such as alternating current, direct current, or both, ausage type, such as for example a semiconductor manufacturing or a plantor a high-security public infrastructure building, and any fluctuationtolerance over the specific period of time at issue which may influenceload variances, such as where the number and type of devices requiringpower changes over the specific period of time. It is to be understoodthat many variables exist and many different examples may be used toexplain that power needs may be derived from complex modeling of varioussystems.

The load control component 202 is also configured to manage a deliveryof the power requirement 144 to each microgrid 108 in response to thecontinuing assessment of power demand 146 of each microgrid. This isperformed in conjunction with communications with criticaldistribution-side delivery infrastructure such as receiving locations,transformers, sub-stations, and the like that serve as power intakepoints from the transmission system 106.

Based on the power need of each customer 112, the load control componentaggregates the power demand 146 of each microgrid to arrive at theforecasted power requirement 144 that will eventually be distributed fordelivery across the entire intelligent power distribution network 102over the specific period of time. The power requirement 144 will be bothcommunicated to the power settlement module 218 to arrange the transferof power from the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104, and to orchestrate, together with each microgrid 108, distributionof the power network across the intelligent power distribution network102.

The power requirement 144 is the result of mathematical modeling ofseveral factors, including multiple variables that comprise the powerneed of each customer 112, and other factors affecting the broaderintelligent power distribution network 102, such as higher-levelelectricity grid and microgrid topology that influence usage type(alternating or direct current), usage transmission distance to accountfor losses, and any fluctuation tolerance, as well as other variables asnoted herein, such as regulatory and contractual requirements for usingenergy derived from particular sources determined by another componentof the power distribution module 200. In this way, the modeling used toarrive at the power requirement 144 permits scalability of the presentinvention by incorporating input data from the both the microgrid 108level and the power customer 112 level, allowing seamless integration oflower-level customers 112, additional microgrids 108, and multiplelarge-scale electricity grids serving large geographic areas as needed.

The load control component 202 is therefore responsible for respondingto peak demand loads through communications with each microgrid 108and/or each microgrid control system 110, as well as managing andmonitoring load distribution across the entire intelligent powerdistribution network 102. This load control framework enables many othercritical grid infrastructure functions attendant to load distribution,such as faster service restoration in the event of outages or securityissues, automatic re-routing of power as needed, and generally ensuringa resilient, flexible grid infrastructure.

The power distribution module 200 also includes a renewable energyresource pricing and conditions component 204, which is responsible fora different function of the power distribution module 200—determining acommodity price range at which power from each renewable energy resource114 is to be purchased. In addition to generating the forecasted powerrequirement 144, the power distribution module 200 also provides thepower settlement module 218 with this commodity price range.

Energy from renewable resources is a commodity often traded betweenbuyers and sellers on commodities markets and exchanges, and commodityprices for each of the renewable energy resources 114 from which poweris produced at the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104 vary widely over time for a variety of reasons, such as for exampleweather conditions. Therefore, in order to facilitate a cost-effectivepurchase price for the power requirement 144 to service the intelligentpower distribution network 102, the renewable energy resource pricingand conditions component 204 performs an assessment of commodity pricedata for each renewable resource 114 available for providing the powerrequirement 144 and forecasts a commodity purchase price range at whicheach renewable energy resource 114 will be purchased.

Additionally, power customers 112, and the intelligent powerdistribution network 102 itself, may have certain purchasing conditionsrelated to contractual and regulatory requirements obligating them topurchase energy from particular renewable energy resources at particulartimes and in particular quantities, such as for example commodity pricesignals, or other conditions such as tariffs. These purchasingconditions may impose additional constraints on the amount and purchaseprice of each renewable energy resource 114. Purchasing conditions datamay be available from a variety of sources—such as from an externaldatabase maintaining such requirements, or any other internal orexternal source. Regardless, the renewable energy resource pricing andconditions component 160 is responsible for accumulating thisinformation and incorporating it into models for purchases of powerrelative to each renewable energy resource 114.

The renewable energy resource pricing and conditions component 204performs one or more processes to model the commodity price data foreach renewable energy resource 114 and account for any purchasingconditions, and arrives at the forecasted commodity purchase price rangeat which reach renewable resource will be purchased for the specificperiod of time. The renewable energy resource pricing and conditionscomponent 204 may also take into account meteorological conditions inthe area where the multi-resource offshore renewable resourceinstallation 120 is located in arriving at this forecast. The forecastedcommodity purchase price range is then communicated, via thecommunications component 206, to the power settlement module 218.

In order to access at least commodity price data and meteorologicaldata, the renewable energy resource pricing and conditions component 204communicates with one or more external computing networks 154 that areoutside the distributed computing infrastructure 150. In the case ofcommodity prices for each renewable energy resource 114, the renewableenergy resource pricing and conditions component 204 may access one ormore energy commodity trading platforms 160 to determine the purchaseprice range for each renewable energy resource 114 for the specificperiod of time. The owner or operator of one or more electricity gridsand/or microgrids 108 coupled to the intelligent power distributionnetwork 102 may also buy, sell, or trade, financial instruments allowingthe power distribution module 200 to hedge, or control, exposure toprice fluctuations in the commodity price data for each renewable energyresource 114. Similarly the renewable energy resource pricing andconditions component 204 may access one or more meteorological weatherplatform or site 162, and one or more purchasing conditions database164. Regardless, the power distribution module 200 is to be understoodto include the capability to communicate with one or more externalcomputing networks 154 to accomplish forecasts of commodity price data,meteorological conditions, and where applicable, include purchasingconditions from contractual and regulatory requirements of eachmicrogrid 108 and/or power customer 112 in those forecasts.

The communications component 206 is at least responsible forcommunicating data to the power settlement module 218, within the powerdistribution module 200, and with the one or more external computingnetworks 154. The data to be communicated to the power settlement module218 includes the power requirement 144, the commodity purchase pricerange at which the power requirement 144 will be purchased for eachrenewable energy resource 114 available at the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104, and any purchasing condition relativeto the purchase of power from renewable energy resources 114. Thecommunications component 160 includes one or more processes and circuitelements configured to aggregate various data inputs and transmit theresulting aggregated data incorporating the power requirement 144, thecommodity purchase price range, and any purchasing condition within thedistributed computing infrastructure 150. The communications component206 therefore incorporates logic elements to ensure incoming data fromthe load control component 202 and the renewable energy resource pricingand conditions component 204 is in a form that can be utilized by thepower settlement module 218 to settle a transfer of the powerrequirement 144 in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 2B is a conceptual diagram of components in a power generationmodule 208 according to the present invention. The power generationmodule 208 is a series of processes performed across one or moreprocessors within the renewable resource energy management system 100and is responsible for various production-side functions governingoperations in the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104. The power generation module 208 includes a renewable resourceefficiency component 210, a renewable resource control component 212,and a communications component 216.

The renewable resource efficiency component 210 is configured to performmultiple tasks. One such task is to continually assess commodity pricesfor each renewable energy resource 114, and forecast a commodity sellingprice range for each renewable energy resource 114. Further, therenewable resource efficiency component 210 continually assesses, andforecasts, meteorological conditions at the location of themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 to helpdetermine the ability of each renewable resource component 116 tooperate over the specific period of time. This meteorological conditionsforecast is also incorporated into the commodity price selling range.Both the commodity price selling range and the meteorological conditionsforecasts are determined relative to the specific period of time, whichis communicated from the power settlement module 218 via thecommunications component 216.

As with the power distribution module 200, in order to access commodityprice data and meteorological conditions data, the renewable energyresource efficiency component 210 must communicate with one or moreexternal computing networks 154 that are outside the framework of thedistributed computing infrastructure 150. The communications component224 facilitate the use of the one or more external computing networks154 that allow the renewable resource efficiency component 210 to accessthe one or more energy commodity trading platforms 160, the one or moremeteorological weather platform or site 162, and the one or morepurchasing conditions database 164 to accomplish forecasts of commodityprice data and meteorological conditions. It is also possible that theoperator of the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104 may buy, sell, or trade, financial instruments allowing the powergeneration module 208 to hedge, or control, exposure to pricefluctuations in the commodity price data for each renewable energyresource 114 over the specific period of time.

The renewable energy resource control component 212 is configured tocontinually assess an operational availability and power capacity 148 ofeach renewable energy resource component 116 at the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104. This is performed throughrenewable energy resource control systems 214 each at least controllingone of the renewable energy resource components 116. It is furthercontemplated that each apparatus within each renewable energy resourcecomponent 116 may also have a dedicated control sub-system controllingthe specific apparatus and responsive to output data from the renewableresource control system 214.

Each apparatus in each renewable energy resource component 116 has acontroller coupled thereto capable at least of operating the apparatusto produce power, and to provide input data to either or both of thecontrol sub-system for the apparatus and the renewable resource controlsystem 214 responsible for the respective renewable energy resourcecomponent 116. The renewable energy resource control system 214 receivesinput data from each controller of each apparatus and/or each controlsub-system to model the overall operational availability and powercapacity 148 of each renewable energy resource component 116.

The renewable energy resource control component 212 uses output signalsfrom each renewable energy resource control system 214 to forecast apower production capacity 148 of each renewable energy resourcecomponent 116 over the specific period of time. The specific period oftime is communicated from the power settlement module 218 via thecommunications component 216. This power production capacity 148forecast is a function of at least the operational availability of eachrenewable energy resource component 116 as indicated in output signalsof the renewable energy resource control systems 214, and may alsomodulate those signals with the forecasted meteorological conditions andcommodity pricing data relative to each renewable energy resource 114 atthe multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 120 that arecommunicated from the renewable resource efficiency component 210.Therefore the power production capacity 148 reflects the operationalavailability and a predicted level of operational efficiency of eachrenewable energy resource component over the specific period of time.

The renewable energy resource control component 212 also receivesincoming instructions from the power settlement module 218 followingresolution of a transaction, to produce power responsive to the powerrequirement 144 and the commodity prices of a transaction settledtherein. Either of the power settlement module 218 or the renewableenergy resource control component 212 may further determine the specificproportions or amount of power from each renewable energy resourcecomponent to be produced for the specific period of time. The renewableenergy resource control component 212 therefore is capable ofdetermining an operational efficiency level of power production capacityfor each renewable energy resource component 116 in response toinstructions from the power settlement module 118 and reflective ofmultiple variables, such as the forecasted meteorological conditions andcommodity price data, as well as the power requirement 144 over thespecific period of time. Regardless, the renewable energy resourcecontrol systems 214 then begin operating each apparatus as determined byeither the power generation module 208 or the power settlement module218. Power will therefore be produced from an efficient combination ofrenewable energy resources that satisfies the power requirement 144 andbalances power production with the power to be consumed by theintelligent power distribution network for the specific period of time.

The communications component 216 is at least responsible forcommunicating data to the power settlement module 218, within the powergeneration module 208, and with the one or more external computingnetworks 154. The data to be communicated to the power settlement module218 at least includes the power generating capacity 148 of component116, the commodity selling price range at which the power requirement144 will be sold for each renewable energy resource 114 available at themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104, and themeteorological conditions forecast. The meteorological conditionsforecast may be included regardless of whether it is represented withinthe forecasted power capacity 148 of each renewable energy resourcecomponent 116.

The communications component 216 is comprised of one or more processesand circuit elements configured to aggregate and transmit the data to becommunicated to the power settlement module 218, which incorporates thelevel of operation, the commodity selling price range, and themeteorological conditions forecast, within the distributed computinginfrastructure 150. The communications component 216 therefore alsoincludes logic elements to ensure incoming data from the renewableresource efficiency component 210 and the renewable resource controlcomponent 212 is in a form that can be utilized by the power settlementmodule 218 to settle a transfer of the power requirement 144 inaccordance with the present invention. The communications component 216is also responsible for communicating information from the powersettlement module 218 to the renewable resource control component 212for further input data to the renewable energy resource control systems214.

It should be noted that the operator of the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104 may also have renewable energy sellingconditions relative to providing power from certain renewable energyresources 114. It is therefore contemplated that the renewable resourceefficiency component 210 will be responsible for assessing thisinformation, and the communications component 216 will be responsiblefor integrating it into data communicated to the power settlement module218.

FIG. 2C is a conceptual diagram of components in a power settlementmodule 218 according to the present invention. A power settlement module218 is another series of processes performed across one or moreprocessors within the renewable resource energy management system 100and is responsible for various global functions, such as settling thesale and purchase of power generated from each renewable energy resource114 and arranging a transfer of power from the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104 to the intelligent power distributionnetwork 102 via the transmission system 106. The power settlement module218 includes a transaction resolution component 220, a power production,transmission and delivery component 222, and a communications component224. Within these components, the power settlement module 218communicates data to all of the power distribution module 200, the powergeneration module 208, and the power transmission module 226 regardingthe transfer of power requirement 144.

The transaction resolution component 220 at least performs the functionof comparing the commodity selling and purchase price ranges from eachof the power distribution module 200 and the power generation module 208and resolving a final price for power to be generated from eachrenewable energy resource 114 for the specific period of time to satisfythe power requirement 144. The final price is communicated to both thepower distribution module 200 and the power generation module 208.

The transaction resolution component 220 also determines the amount ofpower to be produced for each component 116 within the power capacity148 and relative to the power requirement 144 and final price for powerto be produced from each renewable energy resource 114. The amount ofpower is contemplated to be expressed in ranges of amounts thatrepresent proposed levels of operation for each component 116. This iscommunicated to the power production transmission and delivery component222, which generates signals to the power generation module 208 to beginproducing power from the renewable resource components 116, to the powerdistribution module 200 to begin preparing to deliver power to eachmicrogrid 108, and to the power transmission module 226 to beginpreparing for transmission.

The power settlement module 218 therefore communicates, via thecommunications component 224, signals to the power generation module 208the amount of power to be generated from each of the renewable energyresource components 116, responsive to which renewable energy resources114 have been purchased and in what amounts the respective components116 are to generate power. Each renewable resource component controlsystem 214 takes these signals as input data to further determine whichspecific apparatus is to generate power, and instructs each controllerand/or sub-control system in each specific apparatus to be used tooperate. In this manner, each renewable energy resource component 116,and indeed each apparatus therein, can be independently and variablycontrolled to produce the desired power requirement 144.

The power settlement module 218 also includes performs the function ofcommunicating start and stop instructions in one or more signals to thepower transmission module 226. These instructions serve to prepare thepower transmission module 226 and its components and transmissioncontrol system 220 to prepare to transmit the power being generated bythe renewable energy resource components 116.

FIG. 2D is a conceptual diagram of components in a power transmissionmodule 226 according to the present invention. The power transmissionmodule 226 is a series of processes performed across one or moreprocessors within the renewable resource energy management system 100and is responsible for various transmission-side functions governing thetransmission system 106 over which the power requirement 144 is to besent. The transmission system 106 is a high voltage direct current(HVDC) system that includes a common direct current bus to which asystem of voltage source converters (VSCs) 156 and each power outputcircuit 142 of each apparatus is coupled. The power transmission module226 includes a transmission control component 228, which receivessignals from the power settlement module 218 via a communicationscomponent 234 as input data instructive of several processes to beperformed in the transmission of the power requirement 144. Thetransmission control component 228 includes a transmission controlsystem 230 which performs system check functions such as monitoring thepower outputs of each apparatus for any over-production orunder-production of power and suggesting adjustments to the renewableenergy resource control systems 214, and also ensures that powerproduction matches the capacity of the HVDC transmission system 106. Thetransmission control component 228 also is responsible for beginning andending power transmission over the specific period of time.

The power transmission module 226 includes a voltage source converter(VSC) component 232 configured to operate and monitor the system ofvoltage source converters 156 coupled to the power output circuits 142of each apparatus in the renewable energy resource components 116. TheVSC component 232 helps to ensure that each apparatus and each renewableenergy resource component 116 produces the desired output by adjustingthe voltage step-up, voltage step-down, and rectification components ofthe system of voltage source converters 156 in response to signalscommunicated from the power settlement module 218 and also from outputdata of the transmission control component 228.

The power transmission module 226 also includes a communicationscomponent 234 which includes one or more processes and circuit elementsconfigured to manage communications and operations within, to and fromthe power transmission module 226. This includes receiving andprocessing data from the power settlement module 218 to activate thesystem of voltage source converters 156 through the VSC convertercomponent 232, and providing input data for the transmission controlsystem 230 and initiating starts and stops in the HVDC transmissionsystem 106 through the transmission control component 228.

The present invention includes at least three types of controlsystems—the microgrid control systems 110, the renewable energy resourcecontrol systems 214, and the transmission control systems 230. Each ofthe microgrid control systems 110, the renewable energy resource controlsystems 214, and the transmission control system 230 operate within thedistribute computing infrastructure 150 to receive input data fromvarious sources as discussed herein, mathematically model physicalsystems to be analyzed, and produce specific output signals that help tooperate the renewable energy resource management system 100 to generatethe power requirement 144 over the specific period of time to achieveone or more objectives of the present invention.

Each microgrid control system 110 is responsible, in conjunction withthe load control component 202, for controlling each microgrid 108 andeach power customer 112 coupled to each microgrid. Because of thedecoupled nature of each microgrid 108, there must be a dedicated systemcapable of performing one or more control functions, such as assessingthe power demand 146 of each microgrid 108, managing power delivery toeach customer 112 of the microgrid 108, decoupling each microgrid 108 toassume control over distribution and delivery where the need arises, anddetermining and pushing instructions to each device, meter, or customer112 if needed. Each microgrid control system 110 receives as input datasignals from multiple sources and models several different systems toproduce output signals to perform these functions.

To determine power demand 146, for example, each microgrid controlsystem 110 receives input data from the one or more power customers 112coupled to each microgrid 108. This input data may be generated andcommunicated by customers 112 themselves, by microgrid controllersoperable to collect usage data, and by one or more devices havingcontrollers thereon and coupled to each customer 112. The usage data maybe requested by the microgrid control system 230 or communicatedautomatically via communications component 206.

Collectively, this usage data reflects many different variables, such ascustomer type, importance level, specific requirements, usage history,usage type, any fluctuation tolerance, and a number and type of devicesused by each customer 112. The microgrid control system 110 performssystem modeling with these variables for its microgrid 108 and generatesan output signal to the load control component 202 indicative of, forthe specific period of time, the power demand 146 for that microgrid108.

Each microgrid control system also receives input data in signals fromthe load control component 202 that includes the amount of power to bedelivered to the intelligent power distribution network 102 andcompositions that power delivery will have with regard to renewableenergy resources 114, such as for example alternating current or directcurrent. The microgrid control systems 110 perform system modeling ofthis data to determine a most appropriate distribution across thecustomers 112 coupled to each microgrid 108, and generates outputsignals that instruct one or more infrastructure components such asreceiving stations, substations, transformers, and other such componentshow and where to distribute and delivery power to microgrids 108 andcustomers 112.

This has particular import in the case of decoupling of microgrids 108.Each microgrid control system 110 is responsible for decoupling eachmicrogrid 108 as the need arises. In this embodiment, the microgridcontrol system 110 receives input data in a signal from the load controlcomponent 202 to decouple and continue to distribute and deliver powerto one or more of the microgrids 108 as directed. Similar to above, themicrogrid control system 110 analyzes this input signal with the modeledsystem of the decoupled microgrid 108, and determines a most appropriatedistribution across customers 112 who are to continue receiving power.

Each renewable energy resource control system 214 is responsible forcontrolling each respective renewable energy resource component 116 towhich they belong. Each renewable energy resource control system 214receives input signals from on-board controllers in each apparatus,comprised of data representing one or more operational power capacitycharacteristics, such as for example the type of apparatus, the time ofday, recent performance history, current operating condition, upcomingscheduled maintenance, current weather conditions, and any othervariable effecting operability and availability. The renewable energyresource control system 214 uses the input data to create a system modelof how each apparatus will perform over the specific period of time, andgenerates an output signal for the renewable resource control component212 to generate a power capacity 148 forecast.

In the reverse direction, each renewable energy resource control system214 receives an input signal comprised of data representing instructionsfrom renewable energy resource control component 212 for operation ofeach renewable energy resource component 116. The renewable energyresource control system 214 responsible for each component 116 thenmodels each component 116 with the input data to determine outputcharacteristics regarding operating each component, such as whichapparatus(es) to operate to generate power, at what speed and capacity,for how much time, and in what combination. This information iscontained within output signals generated for each component 116 andeach controller in each apparatus.

The transmission control system 230 performs a system of checks toensure proper functioning of both the power outputs of each renewableenergy resource component 116 and the HVDC transmission system 106. Thetransmission control system 230 receives input data in signals from thepower output circuits 142 of each apparatus or each renewable energyresource component 116 or both, prior to connection with the system ofvoltage source converters 156. The transmission control system 230compares this data with information from both the power generationmodule 208 and the power settlement module 218 regarding the known powerrequirement 144 to determine whether or not power is beingunder-produced or over-produced. One of two outcomes are decided upon—inthe case of a match, the transmission control system 230 does nothingand continues onto the next system check. In the event of a power overor under-production, the transmission control system 230 generates anoutput signal to one or more of the renewable energy resource controlsystems 214 to adjust power output up or down. In this way, thetransmission control system 230 acts as a feedback loop to one or moreof the renewable energy resource control systems 214.

The transmission control system 230 also receives input signals from theoutput circuits of each voltage source converter 156 after voltage hasbeen stepped or down in response to signals from the VSC component 232.The transmission control system 230 models the voltage source converter156 output data with known tolerance characteristics of either or bothof the power requirement 144 and the HVDC transmission system 106, anddetermines whether or not voltage levels are within expected tolerances.If they are, the transmission control system 230 does nothing andcontinues with the further system checks. If they are outside expectedtolerances, the transmission control system 106 generates an outputsignal to the VSC component 232 to adjust voltage step and voltage stepdown where needed in the voltage source converter system 156.

The transmission control system 230 further receives data in inputsignals relative to the power output from the common direct current bus158, and models this data with known load characteristics of the HVDCtransmission system 106. This modeling is performed to ensure the poweroutput being transmitted, either in terms of total capacity or voltagelevels, does not exceed the load capacity of the HVDC transmissionsystem 106. If there is a mismatch where load capacity will be exceeded,an output signal is generated either to one or more of the renewableenergy resource control systems 214 or to the VSC component 232 to makeappropriate adjustments as discussed above. The transmission controlsystem 230 may also generate an output signal activating a powerfeedback loop to remove excess capacity from the HVDC transmissionsystem 106. The power feedback loop may route excess capacity to storagein a temporary battery or to an installation sub-station configured toprovide power to the one or more of the renewable energy resourcecomponents 116 or to another component area of the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104.

FIG. 3 is a system diagram of an electricity grid infrastructure 300according to another embodiment of the present invention. Theelectricity grid infrastructure 300 comprises an intelligent powerdistribution network 102 as part of a renewable energy-based electricitygrid that comprises of one or more microgrids 108 each having a powercustomer 112 coupled thereto, a multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104, an HVDC transmission system 106, and in one aspect, adistributed management system 302 configured to perform one or morefunctions such as settling a transaction in which power consumption issubstantially balanced to power production.

Use of the term “intelligent power distribution network” herein impliesthat portion of the electricity “grid” which consumes power deliveredfrom any number of sources. Conventional electricity or power “grids”are interconnected networks configured to deliver electricity fromsuppliers to consumers, or in other words, from sellers to buyers.Typical grids include generating components that produce electricity,transmission components that carry electricity from supplier toreceiving locations, and distribution components that carry outactivities necessary to ensure that electricity is delivered in the formneeded to consumers. Current electricity grid infrastructure is agingand in substantial need of improvement to keep up with a myriad ofissues such as increased power demand, instability from fluctuations inpower flow, sophisticated end-use technologies, and escalating securityconcerns.

The electricity generation portion of a typical grid topology includesgenerating plants, which act as sellers, that connect to thetransmission portion to move power across distances. The transmissionportion connects the sellers with buyers, which are wholesale customerssuch as companies or municipalities responsible for distribution ofpower to consumers, to transfer power. Distribution of power involvesmany different technologies, such as for example substations,transformers, and power lines that ultimately deliver power to endusers.

One type of electricity grid is a “smart” grid which is capable ofpredicting behavior of power consumers to achieve policy objectives suchas enhancing infrastructure stability, reducing peak demand, andmanaging overall energy consumption and infrastructure performance.Smart electricity grids do this by attempting to increase automation andcommunication between the various infrastructure components.

An intelligent power distribution network 102 of an electricity gridinfrastructure 300 according to the present invention may be thought ofin a number of ways. It may be comprised of one or more electricitygrids, and also as (or instead as) composed of one or more smallermicro-electricity grids, or microgrids 108. Microgrids 108 may representmany different aspects of the overall consumptive framework of theintelligent power distribution network 102. For example, microgrids 108may be configured to represent different customers or consumers 112 ofpower which is delivered to the overall intelligent power distributionnetwork 102, such as different types of consumers, consumers indifferent geographical locations, consumers with specific and similarpower needs, consumers for whom delivery of power is a public securityissue, etc.

The term “microgrid” is usually understood to mean a subset of an areawithin a utility grid, and most often, areas embedded in local orsmall-scale electricity environments, such as buildings orneighborhoods. The term is also often used to refer to micro-sitegeneration of power particular resources, such as solar panels mountedon buildings.

Microgrids 108 as contemplated by the present invention are expanded tobe areas not necessarily limited by geographical region. Instead,microgrids 108 according to the present invention, while remainingsubsets of the larger utility grid, may be separate systems that arecoupled to, and capable of being decoupled from, the larger utility gridso that power can be separately delivered thereto. Microgrids 108 mayalso be allocated for any type of power consumer 112, in any location,and relative to any reason for segregating the broader utility grid intosmaller microgrids 108.

It is to be understood that regardless of the embodiment referenced, thepresent invention contemplates that the one or more smaller microgrids108 which comprise the intelligent power distribution network 102 areseparately configured so as to be decoupleable from the intelligentpower distribution network 102 as the need arises. Such a decouplingcould be performed for many different reasons as discussed herein.Microgrids 108 may also be comprised of one or more sub-microgrids thatare configured to communicate power needs of specific things thatcomprise the broader microgrid 108 to which they are a part. The presentinvention also contemplates that microgrids 108 can be formed,dissolved, and reconfigured at any time by one or more of the modulesand microgrid control systems 110 disclosed herein.

Microgrids 108 therefore have utility in a variety of ways within thepresent invention. In addition to ensuring that a real-time powerrequirement 144 is discerned and supplied over a specific time period,other utilities include ensuring grid infrastructure security andproviding specific types of power to different microgrids 108 that needsuch specialized service. Examples of this are microgrids representingsemiconductor-based facilities that specifically requires directcurrent-based power, and microgrids representing specific components ofthe intelligent power distribution network itself, such as receivinglocations 236, substations, relays, and transformers. Regardless, eachmicrogrid 108 is connected through at least one computing network 152 toperform the variety of task as discussed herein. For example, amicrogrid 108 representing a residential neighborhood would beconfigured to communicate, using one or more interconnected computingnetworks 152, the neighborhood's power needs, based on signals receivedfrom and/or sent to one or more devices capable of reading, calculating,and predicting the real-time power needs of each resident of theneighborhood.

One example of an intelligent power distribution network 102 is anelectricity grid that is responsible for supplying power to the entirewestern United States. Such an intelligent power distribution network102 would be comprised of many microgrids 108 that represent eachsub-region, state, or city in that geographical area, and within that,microgrids 108 that represent specific types of power consumers 112.Each of these microgrids 108 would be separately coupled to theintelligent power distribution network 102 so that power requirement 144for each would be delivered according to the load control component 202and a respective microgrid control system 110. In this embodiment, thedistributed load management system 302 of the electricity gridinfrastructure 300 is responsible coordinating a power delivery to eachmicrogrid 108 together with the microgrid control system 110 in anamount that satisfies real-time needs.

Infrastructure security is easily facilitated by the microgrid 108framework according to the present invention. A microgrid 108 may berepresentative of key public infrastructure installations, such as forexample ports, military sites, water installations such as reservoirsand dams, high-speed rail lines, canals, metro systems, other powergeneration facilities, manufacturing and production facilities, etc. Byallowing for the immediate decoupling of a microgrid 108 in the event ofsecurity issue with the overall intelligent power distribution network102 or to another microgrid 108, power can be continually supplied to aparticular microgrid 108, and its represented customers 112 who needpower to keep public services smoothly operating in the event of such asecurity issue.

The power distribution module 200, and the distributed load managementsystem 302, together with each microgrid 108 and with each microgridcontrol system 11, coordinate and carry out any decoupling as the needarises. It is therefore to be understood that electricity grid topologyaccording to the present invention is integrated to support such aninterconnected and coupled framework that is at the same time capable ofbeing fragmented in real time to deliver power separately to specificmicrogrids 108 should the need arise

The present invention further contemplates that because power isgenerated and transmitted entirely in direct current form by the HVDCtransmission system 106, it is possible for power to be supplied tomicrogrids 108 requiring direct current directly without having toprocess and transform incoming power at a receiving location 236. Thiscan be done, for example, in a situation where the receiving locationitself is under a security threat. Microgrids 108 can be configured, viathe power distribution module 200, distributed load management system302, and microgrid control systems 110, to operate entirely on directcurrent that can be supplied directly by the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104.

The present invention also further contemplates that an intelligentpower distribution network 102, and microgrids 108, may be configured toeither run entirely on direct current, or to be able to easily switchfrom requiring alternating current to requiring direct current as theneed arises at receiving locations 236 or substations serving particularmicrogrids 108. For example, in a security situation where the powertransformation at the main network-level receiving location 236 fromdirect current to alternating current has been disabled, power can bedelivered to key microgrids 108 directly in direct current. It iscontemplated that a microgrid 108 may have the ability to switch itsrepresented customers 112 to a direct current model, either permanentlyor temporarily, in such a situation.

Accordingly, electricity grid infrastructure 300 according to thepresent invention is to be configured so that microgrids 108 can bequickly decoupled from the main intelligent power distribution network102 and supplied with direct current power via the HVDC transmissionsystem 106 in the event of an incident requiring such a decoupling andcontinued supply of uninterrupted power. In this way, the electricitygrid infrastructure 300 is a flexibly topology that is capable ofexpanding and contracting and that supports resiliency and stabilitywhen problems that threaten the supply of power arise.

As the world becomes increasingly dependent on non-renewable andcarbon-based energy resources, and substantial supply, price, andgeopolitical stability problems attendant thereto proliferate, it isapparent that there is a strong need for a system and method ofproviding power generated entirely from renewable energy resources 114.In another embodiment of the present invention, a multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104 and method of operationprovide an intelligent power distribution network 102 with all of itspower needs from one source that generates energy from multiplerenewable energy resources 114.

FIG. 4 is a system diagram of a multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104. The multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 is an apparatus or series of apparatuses that includesmultiple renewable energy resource components 116 for generating powerthat are each derived from a particular renewable energy resource 114.The multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 iscontemplated to be a deep-ocean, marine installation at sites locatedfar from land, typically in the range of greater than 50 km from thenearest onshore intelligent power distribution network 102. However, itis within the scope of the present invention that such a multi-resourceoffshore renewable installation 104 could be a marine installationlocated near to the shore and also on freshwater bodies such as lakesand rivers, whether naturally occurring or man-made.

The multiple renewable energy resource components 116 include a windcomponent 118 deriving power from wind energy, a solar component 122deriving power from solar energy, a hydrokinetic component 128 derivingpower from wave and tidal current energy, and a solar thermal component136 deriving power from the process of heating ocean water using solarthermal energy. The present invention may also include an ocean thermalenergy conversion component 140. Each of the wind component 118, thesolar component 122, the hydrokinetic component 128, the solar thermalcomponent 136, and the ocean thermal energy conversion component 140include an array of apparatuses each coupled to a respective renewableenergy resource control system 214.

In accordance with other aspects and embodiments of the presentinvention, the multi-resource renewable energy installation 120 isconfigured so that a maximum efficient operational power-generatingcapacity of each apparatus, and each renewable energy resource component116, is achieved. The multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 is therefore intended to present a solution to theproblem of inefficiencies that are naturally present in renewableresource components 116 generating power from resources such as wind,solar, hydrokinetic, and solar thermal energy.

The present invention contemplates that there are numerous ways in whichcomponents capable of generating power from multiple renewable energyresources 114 can be configured on such multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104. For example, the installation may bea large-scale energy farm with hundreds or thousands of apparatusesworking to generate power. Each of the components 116 may be configuredin any number of ways in such a large-scale energy farm to generatepower and take advantage of fluctuations in weather conditions. Themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 is thereforecompletely scalable from an ultra-high capacity multi-megawatt orgigawatt installation to serve large-scale power consumers 112, to amedium to low-capacity installation to serve power consumers 112 withsmaller demand. FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 show overall perspective and top planviews of embodiments of the multi-resource renewable energy installation104.

The multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 may beboth permanent and temporary and have both permanent and temporarycomponents 116 as portions thereof to achieve the scalabilitycontemplated herein. It may be entirely fixed so that it anchors to theocean floor and is therefore a permanent installation. It may also be afloating structure, in whole or in part, with temporary anchoringmechanisms and with some or all of the components 116 being movable toother locations as needed. It may further be a combination of permanentand temporary components, for example in a configuration in which powertransmission components are in fixed portion while power generatingcomponents 116 are temporary components that can “dock,” as in the caseof one or more barges having components installed thereupon, to thepermanent components or to other mobile components. Regardless ofpossible configuration, the present invention considerably reducesconstruction and operating costs by implementing technologies thatsubstantially reduce the possibility of lasting environmental damage.With the present invention, there is no need to drill for non-renewablecarbon-based resources that may pollute environment as such aninstallation site.

Costs can be further minimized due to the ability to maximizeoperational power-generating capacity. In the present invention, powerproduction is substantially balanced with power consumption, so thatonly an amount of power required is produced over the specific period oftime, at least in part because the renewable energy resource controlsystems 214, responsive to signals regarding settled transactions, canvariably and separably operate each apparatus within each component 116.Therefore, present invention may not require large, expensive, andenvironmentally damaging power storage components at either themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 102 or theintelligent power distribution network 102.

The multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 may be apurpose-built semi-submersible production platform that is a floatingvessel capable of supporting the renewable energy resource components116 in multiple configurations in deep water and other harsh offshoreenvironments. This provides a mobile yet stable operational platformneeded to produce power at the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 and that is capable of being deployed in differentlocations, regardless of whether each of the renewable energy resourcecomponents 116 are permanently part of the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104 or removably and/or temporarilycoupled thereto, such as for example on separate pontoons or barges.

Stability in such a mobile semi-submersible platform according to thisembodiment results from, when in an operational position, a hullstructure being submerged at a deep draft so that the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104 is less susceptible to waveloadings. Operational components of the semi-submersible platform remainwell above the ocean surface. The mobile semi-submersible productionplatform acquires buoyancy from ballasted components below the surface,and one or more support columns connecting the operational componentsand the ballasted components. Other anchoring components may also beutilized for further stability of the mobile semi-submersible platform.

Draft can be adjusted by deballasting the below-surface components sothat the mobile semi-submersible production platform becomes a surfacevessel capable of deployment to a different location. In this regard, amobile semi-submersible production platform as described may betransportable using a heavy-lift installation transport vessel. Such aheavy-lift installation transport vessel is able to move all or part ofthe installation 104 by ballasting itself to submerge a majority of itsstructure, maneuvering beneath the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104, and then deballasting to lift up all or part ofthe multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 as cargo.

In a further embodiment, where each of the renewable energy resourcecomponents 116 are separately coupled to form the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104, the installation 104 mayalso comprise one or more offshore support vessels that perform variousroles, such as operational activities, transmission system support, andemergency support. Each such vessel may be separately mobile so that themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 is composed ofmany interchangeable parts. Each renewable energy resource component 116may itself be embodied on a mobile semi-submersible platform as well.Therefore, the entire multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 can be thought of as a being deployable in anyconfiguration necessary to meet the objectives of the present invention.

Offshore support vessels such as a transmission system support vesselmay be a key consideration for engineers and planners in the mobileaspect of the semi-submersible production platform that forms all orpart of a multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104.Transmission system support is a consideration in order to ensure thatregardless of where the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 and/or the multiple renewable energy resourcecomponents 116 are deployed, access to the high voltage direct currenttransmission system 106 is available to transfer power to theintelligent power distribution network 102. In one embodiment, vesselssuch as those providing transmission system support may providenode-based transmission cables for easy and remote access to a mainundersea transmission line, particularly where the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104 is mobile semi-submersibleproduction platform. The present invention therefore contemplates thatthe multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 mayinclude a main operational platform, semi-submersible or otherwise,where multiple mobile semi-submersible production platforms connect to amain transmission line supported by such offshore support vessels. Sucha configuration permits the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 to include multiple mobile semi-submersible productionplatforms supporting renewable energy resource components 116 that maybe spread out over hundreds of kilometers and connected by transmissioncables that are branches of the node at the main operational platform.

The multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 includes asolar component 118 for generating power from solar energy. Componentsgenerating power from solar energy are known as photovoltaics, whichconvert solar rays into electricity using panels, or modules, composedof solar cells containing a photovoltaic material. The present inventioncontemplates that the solar energy component 118 is comprised of manysuch photovoltaic modules 124 mounted on one or more mounting systems126. Mounting systems 126 may be either tracking or fixed mountingsystems and photovoltaic modules 124 may be mounted in any configurationthereon, such as for example in portrait configuration or landscapeconfiguration, or any combination thereof.

The present invention contemplates that at least one of the circuitsconnecting an array of photovoltaic modules 124, the tracking mountingsystems 126, and individual photovoltaic modules 124 include one or morecontrollers capable of sending input data in signals to a renewableenergy resource control system 214, as well as capable of receivingsignals therefrom. These controllers are capable of moving or tilting anangle of inclination of each array of photovoltaic modules 124 on atracking mounting system 126 operable at the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104 in response to an output signal of arenewable energy resource control system 214.

Therefore, one or more renewable resource control systems 214 areconfigured to control the photovoltaic modules 124 and tracker mountingsystems 126 and communicate with controllers coupled to each to maximizeoperational capacity of the solar component 118. Where control systems214 operate to generate responses in the photovoltaic modules 124directly, it is contemplated that control over specific photovoltaicmodules and in arrays of photovoltaic modules 124 as a whole are bothwithin the scope of the present invention. The controllers in eachphotovoltaic module or in each array of photovoltaic modules 124 areconfigured, in one aspect, to communicate at least a real-timeoperational ability and power capacity 148 of each photovoltaic moduleor array of photovoltaic modules 124 and real-time sunlight availabilityconditions, and in another aspect, to respond to output signalsgenerated by the control system 214 to perform a host of actions, suchas for example controlling power output circuits 142 in response toinstruction from the power settlement module 218. Similarly, controllersin each tracking mounting system 126 are configured, in one aspect to,communicate at least a real-time operational availability of eachtracking mounting system 126 and real-time sunlight availabilityconditions, and in another aspect, to respond to output signalsgenerated by the control system 214 to perform actions such as adjustingthe angle of inclination, or switching power generation circuits on oroff where multiple photovoltaic modules 124 are connected togetherthereon.

Photovoltaic modules 124 are solid state devices that typically generatea power output as direct current electricity. Because of this, the poweroutput of each array of photovoltaic modules 124 can be provideddirectly to the system of voltage source converters 156 and the commondirect current bus 158 in the HVDC transmission system 106, eliminatingthe need for further components such as inverters to convert from onecurrent form to another. The HVDC transmission system 106 must stillaccount for variances in both the voltage output of each photovoltaicmodule or array of photovoltaic modules 124 and with power outputs ofother components 116, depending on the output configuration, andtherefore the transmission control system 230 monitors the power outputof each as discussed here. The transmission control system 230 may actas feedback for the renewable energy resource control system 214 wherepower output needs to be adjusted to ensure common voltage levels acrossthe common direct current bus 158, may therefore generate an outputsignal to adjust one or more components of the solar component 118accordingly. The transmission control system 230 may also monitor andinstruct the system of voltage source converters 156 to either step upthe output voltage or step down the output voltage as needed to ensure auniform voltage level across the common direct current bus 156.Regardless, the present invention ensures that the power output isproperly monitored and adjusted for transmission, distribution anddelivery.

The present invention further contemplates that in this manner, as withother renewable energy resource components 116, both the powergeneration module 208, the renewable energy resource control systems214, transmission control system 230, and the voltage source converters156 allow for very flexible operation of photovoltaic modules 124 toarrive at a proper power production capacity that satisfies the powerrequirement 144 over the specific period of time, as other systemicobjectives such as transmission system stability.

This flexibility allows for substantial design freedom in selectingcomponents. Solar cells forming photovoltaic modules 122 may be made ofany material suitable for installation in deep-ocean conditions so thatthe photovoltaic modules 122 are able to maintain operating capacity inpotentially difficult weather conditions far from shore. Materialstypically must have characteristics matched to the spectrum of availablelight at the installation site, but it is contemplated that where alarge number of photovoltaic modules 124 are installed at themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104, manydifferent types of photovoltaic modules may be combined and utilized toachieve optimal efficiency.

In one embodiment, materials such as nanocrystalline silicon in whichthe photovoltaic materials embedded with nanonparticles may haveparticular utility in installations such as those disclosed herein,where weather conditions make maintenance a significant challenge.Nanoparticles may be further embedded with components such asmicrocontrollers which are capable of communicating certain operatingconditions to the renewable resource control system 214 responsible forthe photovoltaic module 124, array of photovoltaic modules 124, andtracking mounting system 126 having photovoltaic modules 124 installedthereon. Use of photovoltaic modules 124 fabricated of materials of thistype may increase the ability to assess real-time operationalavailability and real-time weather conditions, and increase overalldurability of the solar component 118.

Photovoltaic modules 124 and mounting systems 126 may be either fixed orpermanent components of the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104, or temporarily coupled thereto so as to be mobile anddeployable to different locations or as needed. Regardless, an array ofphotovoltaic modules 124 may also be part of a floating installation ofrenewable resource components 116, or a fixed installation with supportthat is permanently anchored to the seabed. Floating installations donot require permanent anchoring mechanisms and can be positioned, forexample, on pontoon-based supports or on barges, reducing theenvironmental impact and increasing the scalability of themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104. Floatinginstallations may also be capable of being raised and lowered as neededto protect photovoltaic modules 124 and mounting systems 126, and keepthem operational, in the event of storms, rough seas, very large waves,or other adverse environmental conditions.

Cooling of photovoltaic modules 124 can be achieved from winds at theinstallation site or from the ocean water itself, particularly whereocean thermal energy conversion components are implemented that producedesalinized water from heating ocean water. Floating or temporarystructures also provide the benefit of allowing photovoltaic modules 124to be installed and used to generate power in locations, particularlyvery deep ocean waters, where seabed anchoring is not feasible.

The wind component 118 is comprised of a plurality of large-scale, largecapacity, commercial high-speed wind turbines 120. Each wind turbine 120includes a rotor with blades turning about either a horizontal orvertical axis, and has a controller resident within a nacelle, coupledto operational and power-generating circuit elements. The presentinvention contemplates that the wind component 118 is comprised of anarray of wind turbines 120 each coupled to a respective renewable energyresource control system 214.

One or more of the renewable resource control systems 214 are configuredto control the wind turbines 120 by receiving input data from andsending output signals to controllers coupled to operational andpower-generating output circuits inside each nacelle. The areconfigured, in one aspect, to communicate at least a real-timeoperational availability and power capacity 148 of each wind turbine120, and in another aspect, to respond to output signals generated bycontrol system 214 to perform a host of actions, such as for exampleturning an power output circuit 142 on or off, adjusting rotor speed, orwhere applicable, rotating each rotor to maximize operations underchanging wind conditions, in response to instruction from the powersettlement module 218.

Wind turbines 120 commonly generate a power output in alternatingcurrent form. The power output of each wind turbine 120 therefore needsto be rectified to direct current prior to connection to the commondirect current bus 158, and voltage source converters 156 adjust thevoltage level with either voltage step-up or step-down transformers toensure a compatible voltage level. Power outputs of all of the windturbines 120, and the voltage output level of the system of voltagesource converters 156, are monitored by the transmission control system230, in addition to the power outputs of all other apparatuses that arebeing operated to generate power, to make further adjustments ifnecessary as discussed herein.

If it is the case that power is generated as direct current, no inverteris needed for connection of the power output circuitry to the commondirect current bus 158 and the HVDC transmission system 106. Thetransmission control system 230 must still however account for variancesin the voltage of each such power output, and therefore would monitorthe power output and voltage source converters 156 as above, inconjunction with power output of other apparatuses of other renewableenergy resource components 116 and in conjunction with each renewableenergy resource control system 214, and make adjustments accordingly.

The present invention further contemplates that in this manner, as withother renewable energy resource components 116, both the powergeneration module 208, the renewable energy resource control systems214, transmission control system 230, and the voltage source converters156 allow for very flexible operation of the wind turbines 120 to arriveat a proper power production capacity that satisfies the powerrequirement 144 over the specific period of time, as other systemicobjectives such as transmission system stability.

This flexible operational approach allows for many differentconfigurations of the wind component 118 within the scope of the presentinvention. For example, wind turbine rotors may be axially rotatable tomaximize capacity where wind direction changes over time. One or morerotors on a wind turbine tower may also be movable so that it can eitherfunction as a wind turbine 120 or wave turbine 130 or 134 as furtherdiscussed herein. Multiple rotors on each tower may be used for tofunction as power generating devices for both sources, so that one rotoris a wind turbine 120, while the other is a wave turbine 130 or 134.

As with photovoltaic modules 124, wind turbines 120 may be coupled so asto be either a fixed or permanent components of the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104, or temporarily coupledthereto so as to be mobile and deployable to different locations or asneeded. Regardless, an array of wind turbines 120 may also be mounted ona floating structure that allows each wind turbine 120 to generateelectricity in deep ocean waters where seabed anchors or piles are notfeasible, or on a fixed structure with support that is permanentlyanchored to the seabed. The fixed structure may be the tower supportingthe wind turbine 118 itself. Floating installations do not requirepermanent anchoring mechanisms and can be positioned, for example, onpontoon-based supports or on barges, reducing the environmental impactand increasing the scalability of the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104.

The hydrokinetic component 128 may include multiple types ofapparatuses, each of which utilize some type of wave conversion toharness energy from movement of water, whether based on surface waves,sub-surface currents, or tides, to generate electrical power output.These wave energy conversion devices are well-suited for deep waterapplications as disclosed herein, as deep water waves and currentsgenerate greater energy and therefore are more useful at generatingpower in high-capacity installations. The present invention includes atleast one of surface wave turbines 130, oscillating water columns 132and sub-surface or undersea wave turbines 134 within the hydrokineticcomponent 128.

The surface and sub-surface wave turbines 130 and 134 are contemplatedto be large-scale, large capacity, commercial turbines each having arotor with blades turning about either a horizontal or vertical axis togenerate power. Each turbine has a controller resident within a nacelle,coupled to operational and/or power-generating output circuits.Oscillating water columns 132 generate power as waves enter and exit apartially submerged collector, causing a water column inside thecollector to rise and fall and drive air inside the column into aturbine. The turbines have controllers coupled to operational and/orpower-generating output circuits therein. The present inventioncontemplates that the hydrokinetic component 128 is comprised of anarray of each of the surface wave turbines 130, oscillating watercolumns 132, and sub-surface wave turbines 134.

Each surface wave turbine 130, oscillating water column 132, andsub-surface turbine 134 is coupled to one or more renewable energyresource control systems 214 configured to control the hydrokineticcomponent 128 and generate output signals to controllers coupled to eachsurface wave turbine 130, oscillating water column 132, and sub-surfaceturbine 134 to separably and variably operable each apparatus. Thecontrollers are configured, in one aspect, to communicate at least areal-time operational availability and power capacity 148 of eachsurface wave turbine 130, oscillating water column 132, and sub-surfaceturbine 134, and in another aspect, to respond to output signalsgenerated by the renewable energy resource control system 214 to performa host of actions, such as for example turning power output circuits 142on or off, adjusting rotor speed, adjusting a water depth at which oceanwater is obtained in the case of the oscillation water columns 130, orwhere applicable, rotating each rotor to maximize operations underchanging surface wave or ocean current conditions, in response toinstruction from the power settlement module 218. Factors havingsubstantial influence on operational availability and power capacity 148of each surface wave turbine 130, oscillating water column 132, andsub-surface wave turbine 134, and the ability to variably operate each,are meteorological conditions such as surface wave and sub-surface oceancurrent strength, which may be continuously measured at the offshoremulti-resource renewable energy installation 120.

The hydrokinetic components 128 are assumed to generate a power outputin alternating current form. Where this is the case, the power output ofeach surface wave turbine 130, oscillating water column 132, andsub-surface turbine 134 therefore needs to be rectified to directcurrent prior to connection to the common direct current bus 158, andvoltage source converters 156 adjust the voltage level with eithervoltage step-up or step-down transformers to ensure a compatible voltagelevel. Power outputs of all of the surface wave turbines 130,oscillating water columns 132, and sub-surface wave turbines 134, andthe voltage output level of the system of voltage source converters 156,are monitored by the transmission control system 230, in addition to thepower outputs of all other apparatuses that are being operated togenerate power, to make further adjustments if necessary as discussedherein.

If it is the case that power is generated as direct current, no inverteris needed for connection of the power output circuitry to the commondirect current bus 158 and the HVDC transmission system 106. Thetransmission control system 230 must still however account for variancesin the voltage of each such power output, and therefore would monitorthe power output and voltage source converters 156 as above, inconjunction with power output of other apparatuses of other renewableenergy resource components 116 and in conjunction with each renewableenergy resource control system 214, to make adjustments accordingly.

The present invention further contemplates that in this manner, both thepower generation module 208, the renewable energy resource controlsystems 214, transmission control system 230, and the voltage sourceconverters 156 allow for very flexible operation of the surface waveturbines 130, oscillating water columns 132, and sub-surface turbines134 to arrive at the proper power production capacity that satisfies thepower requirement 144 over the specific period of time, as well astransmission system stability and other objectives.

This flexible operational approach allows for many differentconfigurations of the hydrokinetic components 128 within the scope ofthe present invention. For example, surface or sub-surface wave turbinerotors may be axially rotatable to maximize capacity where wave orcurrent direction changes over time. One or more rotors on a turbinetower may also be movable so that it can either function as a windturbine 120 or wave turbine 130 or 134. Multiple rotors on each towermay be used for to function as power generating devices for bothsources, so that one rotor is a wind turbine 120, while the other iseither a surface wave turbine 130 or a sub-surface wave turbine 134.

The various apparatuses comprising the hydrokinetic component 128 mayalso be coupled so as to be either a fixed or permanent component of themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104, ortemporarily coupled thereto so as to be mobile and deployable todifferent locations or as needed. Regardless, any of the surface waveturbines 130, oscillating water columns 132, and sub-surface waveturbines 134 may also be mounted on a floating structure that allowseach apparatus to generate electricity in deep ocean waters where seabedanchors or piles are not feasible, or on a fixed structure with supportthat is permanently anchored to the seabed. The fixed structure may alsobe a tower supporting a surface turbine 130 or sub-surface wave turbine134 itself. Floating installations do not require permanent anchoringmechanisms and can be positioned, for example, on pontoon-based supportsor barges, reducing the environmental impact and increasing thescalability of the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104. Pontoons and barges floating on the ocean surface may support anyof the surface wave turbines 130, oscillating water columns 132, orsub-surfaces wave turbines 134, either separately or in combination.

A platform of multiple oscillating water columns 132, whether floatingor fixedly positioned, may also be capable of being raised or lowered asnecessary to protect the equipment to keep them operational, such as incase of storms, rough seas, very large waves, or other adverseenvironmental conditions. This helps to ensure that waves are capable ofentering and exiting the water column 130 to ensure continued operationof this portion of the hydrokinetic component 128, allow for easiermaintenance, and to ensure that damage does not occur.

The solar thermal component 136 utilizes thermal energy, or heat,harnessed from solar energy. The solar thermal component 136 includes anarray of high-temperature solar thermal collectors 138 that use lensesand mirrors to capture and intensify the sun's rays to heat ocean water,which generates steam that drives a turbine generator.

High-temperature solar thermal collectors 138 according to thisembodiment include intake systems through which ocean water is collectedand transported to be heated. These can be configured to collect oceanwater at variable water depths to maximize the operational performanceof each collector 138, since the temperature of ocean water variousaccording to depth, time of year, current patterns, and other variables.

High-temperature solar thermal collectors 138 may be mounted ontracking-type mounting systems to maximize operational efficiency, sothat the angle of tilt or inclination is moveable to account fordifferent positions of the sun at different times of the day and year.Lenses and mirrors may also be mounted on movable systems to increasethe ability of each collector 138 to maximize its operating efficiency.High-temperature solar thermal collectors 138 may be of any conventionaldesign suitable for durable use in deep-ocean, weather intensiveenvironments. Typical conventional designs include parabolic troughs,towers, parabolic dishes, Fresnel reflectors, and other design capableof high-temperature operation.

One or more renewable resource control systems 214 are configured tocontrol the high temperature solar thermal collectors 138, the system ofmirrors and lenses, and the tracking mounting systems on which both aremounted, and communicate with controllers coupled to operational andpower-generating output circuits. The controllers are configured, in oneaspect, to communicate at least a real-time operational availability andpower capacity 148 of each apparatus and real-time sunlight availabilityconditions, and in another aspect, to respond to output signalsgenerated by the control system 214 to perform a host of actions, suchas for example turning power output circuits 142 on or off in responseto instruction from the power settlement module 218, and rotating,turning, or adjusting the angle of inclination of any of thehigh-temperature solar thermal collectors 138, system or mirrors andlenses, and tracking mounting systems.

The solar thermal energy components 134 contemplated herein are assumedto generate a power output in alternating current form. Where it isgenerated as alternating current, the power output of eachhigh-temperature solar thermal collector 138 therefore needs to berectified to direct current prior to connection to the common directcurrent bus 158, and voltage source converters 156 adjust the voltagelevel with either voltage step-up or step-down transformers to ensure acompatible voltage level. Power output of all of the high-temperaturesolar thermal collectors 138, are monitored by the transmission controlsystem 230, in addition to the power outputs of all other apparatusesthat are being operated to generate power, to make further adjustmentsif necessary as discussed herein.

If it is the case that power is generated as direct current, no inverteris needed for connection of the power output circuitry to the commondirect current bus 158 and the HVDC transmission system 106. Thetransmission control system 230 must still however account for variancesin the voltage of each such power output, and therefore would monitorthe power output and voltage source converters 156 as above, inconjunction with power output of other apparatuses of other renewableenergy resource components 116 and in conjunction with each renewableenergy resource control system 214, to make adjustments accordingly.

As with other renewable energy resource components, both the powergeneration module 208, the renewable energy resource control systems214, transmission control system 230, and the voltage source converters156 allow for very flexible operation of high-temperature solar thermalcollectors 138 to arrive at the proper power production capacity thatsatisfies the power requirement 144 over the specific period of time, aswell as transmission system stability and other objectives. Thisflexible operational approach allows for many different configurationsof the high-temperature solar thermal collectors 138 within the scope ofthe present invention. For example, different types of collector designsmay be used in combination, together with different types andconfigurations of mirrors and lenses.

High-temperature solar thermal collectors 138 according to oneembodiment may also be coupled so as to be either a fixed or permanentcomponents of the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104, or temporarily coupled thereto so as to be mobile and deployable todifferent locations or as needed. Regardless, any of thehigh-temperature solar thermal collectors 138, lenses and mirrors, andmounting systems may also be mounted on a floating structure that allowseach apparatus to generate electricity in deep ocean waters where seabedanchors or piles are not feasible, or on a fixed structure with supportthat is permanently anchored to the seabed, or both.

Floating installations do not require permanent anchoring mechanisms andcan be positioned, for example, on pontoon-based supports or on barges,reducing the environmental impact and increasing the scalability of themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104. Floatinginstallations may also be capable of being raised and lowered as neededto protect equipment, components and mounting systems, and keep themoperational, in the event of storms, rough seas, very large waves, orother adverse environmental conditions. Cooling capability can begenerated from the ocean water itself, particularly in floatingstructures and particularly where ocean thermal energy conversioncomponents are implemented that produce desalinized water from heatingocean water.

High-temperature solar thermal collectors 138 may be used to generatepower either during the day or at night, since heat can be stored inlarge quantities to be supplied to the steam cycle of the collectors atnight. The present invention therefore contemplates, that heat storagetanks may be also components on the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104.

The multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 may alsobe configured to include an ocean thermal energy conversion component140 to generate a power output based on differences between cooler deepwater and warmer shallow or surface water. This difference is used togenerate steam which operates a turbine to generate electricity.Different types of systems may be incorporated, such as closed, open, orhybrid systems which take advantage of the water temperature variationsin different ways. One such closed-loop system boils warm surfaceseawater directly in a low-pressure container. The resulting expandedsteam, which becomes pure fresh water as a result of losing its salt,drives a turbine attached to an electrical generator. It can then becondensed into a liquid by exposure to cold temperatures from watersfound greater depths in a different chamber. This has the potential toproduce desalinized fresh water, suitable for drinking water at theoffshore installation site or transmission for onshore use.

In addition to provide an additional source of power for the powerrequirement 144, this renewable resource 114 can be used to self-powerthe offshore multi-resource renewable energy installation 120, togetherwith any feedback loop incorporated in any of one of the power outputcircuits 142 to make use of excess capacity generated. This component iswell-suited for such uses, because the temperature variances betweenwater at different depths may be not enough for large-capacity powerproduction. However, it is likely that at deep ocean installations,water depths will be great enough to generate some notable difference intemperatures, thereby providing at least one source of power for themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 itself. Use ofa renewable energy resource component 116 to self-power themulti-resource offshore renewable energy resource installation 120reduces the environmental impact of the installation by reducing theneed for connecting to a non-renewable source of power.

As with other renewable resource components 116, the ocean thermalenergy component 140 may communicate with one or more renewable resourcecontrol systems 214 and the transmission control system 230 to generatepower to satisfy the power requirement 144. These control systems areconfigured to control the ocean thermal energy component 140 andcommunicate with controllers coupled to operational and power-generatingoutput circuits inside each apparatus to separably and variably operateeach one. The controllers are therefore configured, in one aspect, tocommunicate at least a real-time operational availability and powercapacity 148 of an ocean thermal energy component 140, and in anotheraspect, to respond to output signals generated by the renewable energyresource control system 214 to perform actions such as turning poweroutput circuits 142 on or off, and adjusting a water depth at whichocean water is obtained in response to instruction from the powersettlement module 218. Meteorological conditions such as changes in seawater temperature at different depths have substantial influence on theoperational availability of each ocean thermal energy component 140 andthe ability to variably operate each, and therefore these arecontinuously measured at the offshore multi-resource renewable energyinstallation 120.

The ocean thermal energy components 140 contemplated herein are alsoassumed to generate a power output in alternating current form, andtherefore the power outputs needs to be rectified to direct currentprior to connection to the common direct current bus 158, and voltagesource converters 156 adjust the voltage level with either voltagestep-up or step-down transformers to ensure a compatible voltage level.Power outputs of all of the ocean thermal energy components 140 aremonitored by the transmission control system 230, in addition to thepower outputs of all other apparatuses that are being operated togenerate power, to make further adjustments if necessary as discussedherein.

As with other components 116, where it is the case that power isgenerated as direct current, no inverter is needed for connection of thepower output circuitry to the common direct current bus 158 and the HVDCtransmission system 106. The transmission control system 230 must stillhowever account for variances in the voltage of each such power output,and therefore would monitor the power output and voltage sourceconverters 156 as above, in conjunction with power output of otherapparatuses of other renewable energy resource components 116 and inconjunction with each renewable energy resource control system 214, tomake adjustments accordingly.

Ocean thermal energy components 140 may be either fixed or permanentcomponents of the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104, or temporarily coupled thereto so as to be mobile and deployable todifferent locations or as needed. Regardless, they may also be part of afloating installation of renewable resource components 116, or a fixedinstallation with support that is permanently anchored to the seabed.Floating installations do not require permanent anchoring mechanisms andcan be positioned, for example, on pontoon-based supports or on barges,reducing the environmental impact and increasing the scalability of themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104. Floatinginstallations may also be capable of being raised and lowered as neededto protect ocean thermal energy converters 140, and keep themoperational, in the event of storms, rough seas, very large waves, orother adverse environmental conditions.

As referenced herein, the various embodiments of the present inventioncan be configured in many different ways. In one embodiment, the presentinvention is contemplated to be available as a “packaged” configurationof multiple processes, hardware, and apparatuses that together act as aself-contained system. Such a self-contained system can be deployableand scalable for temporary uses, such as to provide power gridinfrastructure such as in a field military base or large-scale disasterresponse situations.

Distributed computing infrastructure 150 provides a computing andnetwork operational architecture for the renewable resource energymanagement system 100, multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104, and electricity grid infrastructure 300 of the presentinvention. The distributed computing infrastructure 150 utilizes thecombined computing power of multiple interconnected computing networks152 to manage data flow, perform data processing functions, andfacilitate communications in the present invention. It also provides thepower distribution module 200, the power generation module 208, thepower settlement module 218, and power transmission module 226 withflexibility to perform the critical power grid infrastructure functionswith which they are assigned. The distributed computing infrastructure150 is therefore a high-level computing architecture designed to spreadcomputational power around multiple computing environments in adistributed fashion and which aggregates the many interconnectedcomputing networks 152 to perform the multiple processes needed to hostand perform the present invention.

The various modules and control systems of the present invention maytherefore be thought of as utilizing one or more available computingresources as needed from across the distributed computing infrastructure150, regardless of where particular elements of each are stored.Alternatively, system elements such as control systems may be thought ofas being “embedded” at various points within the distributed computinginfrastructure 150, such as for example renewable energy resourcecontrol systems 214 may be embedded within one or more controllerscapable of operating each renewable energy resource component 116.Regardless, it is to be understood that many different configurationsare possible and contemplated within the distributed computinginfrastructure 150.

In one embodiment, the distributed computing infrastructure 150 employscloud computing principles and technology to provide a distributedplatform and resources for hosting multiple modules and data access,processing, modeling, and storage, as well as communication betweeninfrastructure systems and components, so that no one portion of theoverall renewable energy resource management system 100, multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104, or electricity gridinfrastructure 300 is required to host, process, or store information.The distributed computing infrastructure 150 may also be thought as agrid computing architecture in which middleware provides the linkbetween the various modules and control systems of the present inventionto facilitate distributed data processing. Regardless, the presentinvention employs the cloud-based or grid-based distributed computinginfrastructure 150 and interconnected computing networks 152 in multipleways to meet the operational functions and objectives disclosed herein.Additionally, it is to be understood that communications with thedistributed computing infrastructure 150 may be through both wired andwireless means.

Microgrid control systems 110, for example, each perform the criticaltask of determining real-time power needs of customers 112 coupled toeach microgrid 108 without needing a physical location near a microgrid108 or its customers 112. Microgrid control systems 200 may be residentanywhere within the cloud or grid-based distributed computinginfrastructure 150 and utilize interconnected computing networks 152 andcontrollers to collect input data regarding the microgrid 108 and thepower customers 112 coupled thereto, mathematically model power needsrelative to physical characteristics of the microgrid system they areresponsible for controlling, and generate output data used in one aspectto arrive at the power demand 146 for the microgrid 108, and in anotheraspect, to manage delivery of the necessary power requirement 144 toeach microgrid 108 as discussed herein.

Furthermore, the distributed computing infrastructure 150 may be aprivately-hosted, shared computing environment in which secure datacommunications, processing, and storage necessary to accomplish thepresent invention are possible. Effectively a private, secure cloud, thedistributed computing infrastructure 150 according to this aspect of thepresent invention has substantial application in supporting enhancementsin power grid infrastructure security given the increasing need toprotect power grid infrastructure from security threats as noted indetail herein.

Microgrid 108 decoupling has specific application in grid infrastructuresecurity, together with the distributed, decentralized nature of thecomputing environment. The distributed computing infrastructure 150allows communication and connectivity of modules and control systems,and data functions and services managed and controlled by them, to bere-routed and re-deployed where necessary, permitting power to continueto be delivered uninterrupted in the event of a major security threat orattack intended to disrupt flow of power to key public infrastructure.Extra layers further solidify the security aspects of the presentinvention, as the privately-hosted, shared distributed computinginfrastructure 150 allows easier integration of specific informationsecurity measures designed to limit the possibility that systems can bepenetrated and increasing the difficulty in locating and disruptingdistributed services.

The distributed computing infrastructure 150 is capable of facilitatingaccess and communication with one or more external computing networks154 to carry out one or more tasks in practicing the present invention.Data from these types of external networks 154 provide informationneeded by one or more modules and control systems of the presentinvention. An example an external computing network 154 is an energycommodity trading platform 160 or other public or private exchangeinvolving commodities and capable of providing pricing of commodities.Another example is a weather satellite system 162 capable of providingmeteorological data. Yet another example is a database 164, public orprivate, that tracks regulatory requirements for purchasing renewableenergy resources as well as public or private databases for trackingcontractual requirements for the same.

In the present invention, there are several reasons for monitoring,modeling, and forecasting data relative to meteorological conditions andenergy commodity prices. Within both the renewable resource energymanagement system 100 and the electricity grid infrastructure 300embodiments of the present invention, it is imperative to assess energycommodity prices to arrive at an optimized purchase price for eachrenewable energy resource 114 to be purchased. This is influenced bymany factors, such as purchasing conditions related to contractual andregulatory requirements obligating the purchase of particular renewableenergy resources 114 at particular times and in particular quantities,such as for example commodity price signals, or other conditions such astariffs. Meteorological conditions may also be a factor in energycommodity prices over the specific period of time, and thereforemeteorological condition models for each renewable energy resource 114may be components in mathematical models of energy commodity prices overthe period of time to be assessed.

Similarly, within both the renewable energy management system 100 andthe multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104embodiments of the present invention, it is imperative to assess bothmeteorological conditions and energy commodity prices to arrive at bothan optimized sale price for each renewable energy resource 114 to bepurchased and an efficient operational availability and power capacity148 for each renewable resource component 116. For example, an operatorof a multi-resource offshore renewable energy resource installation 120may model meteorological conditions at the installation site and energycommodity prices to forecast an operational availability and powercapacity 18 of each renewable energy resource component 116 at theinstallation.

Monitoring and modeling meteorological conditions is a functionperformed by one or more of the power generation module 208, the powerdistribution module 200, and the power settlement module 218 in therenewable energy resource management system 100, by one or morerenewable resource control systems 214 in the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104, and by one or more of various modulesand control systems in the distributed management system 302 in theelectricity grid infrastructure 300 according to different embodimentsof the present invention. This function is used to forecast ofmeteorological conditions over the specific period of time so that thepower requirement 144 can be satisfied, so that the operational powercapacity 148 of each renewable resource component 116 at amulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 is maximizedto ensure efficiency and cost-effectiveness, and to balance powerproduction with power consumption.

Many different measurements of meteorological conditions arecontemplated with the scope of the present invention, and therefore itis possible that many external networks 154 are to be used to accesssuch data. Among the different meteorological conditions to be measuredinclude wind speed and direction influenced by weather patternsindicating storms, sunlight conditions including time of sunrise andsunset, cloud patterns, surface and sub-surface ocean wave, current andtidal conditions and patterns, ocean temperature at various depths,humidity, barometric pressure, precipitation, and many other variables,each of which alone or in combination affect the performance,availability, and capacity of the renewable energy resource components116 available at the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104.

Similarly, monitoring and modeling renewable energy resource commoditypricing is also a function performed by one or more of the powergeneration module 208, the power distribution module 200, and the powersettlement module 218 in the renewable energy resource management system100, by one or more renewable resource control systems 214 in themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104, and by one ormore of various modules and control systems in the distributedmanagement system 302 of the electricity grid infrastructure 300according to different embodiments of the present invention. Thisfunction is used to forecast both a commodity purchase price, in thecase of the intelligent power distribution network 102, and a commodityselling price, in the case of the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104, over the specific period of time, for eachrenewable energy resource 114 available to satisfy the power requirement144.

Commodity pricing is a component of satisfying the power requirement 144because energy prices fluctuate widely over time and for each type ofrenewable energy resource 114, whether it be solar, wind, hydrokinetic,solar thermal, ocean thermal, or any other energy resource.Incorporating a commodity pricing component allows an efficientoperational power capacity 148 of each renewable energy resourcecomponent 116 to be achieved, and informs a cost-effective, efficientexchange of resources by allowing both the buyer of power and the sellerof power arrive at a price point for each resource. Therefore,monitoring and modeling renewable energy commodity prices helps thepower requirement 144 to be satisfied, and helps to predict theoperational power capacity 148 of each renewable resource component 116to maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness. It is contemplated thatleast some of the renewable energy resources 114 from which power is tobe generated are traded within one or more energy commodities exchanges.It is therefore further contemplated that a forecast of commodity pricesmust take into account at least those that are traded on exchanges.

Types of external computing networks 154 that may be accessed to monitorand forecast meteorological conditions include, but are not limited to,proprietary weather assessment networks, sites capable of accessing datafrom weather satellites, governmental weather system portals, otherparticular weather-related websites, and any other networks capable ofaggregating useful data relative to assessing and predictingmeteorological conditions. Types of external computing networks 154 thatmay be accessed to monitor and forecast energy commodity prices include,but are not limited, proprietary commodities exchange trading platforms,particular commodities pricing information sites, and any other networkscapable aggregating useful commodity price information that can be usedto assess and predict energy commodity prices.

The distributed computing infrastructure 150 may also host one or moreartificial neural networks tasked with heuristically modeling datawithin the present invention to perform a variety of functions, such aspredicting commodity pricing and meteorological conditions, assessingpower usage patterns and power 146 customers, and assessing powercapacity 148 of the renewable energy resource components 116. Theseartificial neural networks introduce data modeling tools to theframework of the various embodiments of the present invention toheuristically model the complex relationships between inputs and outputsof data and to identify and take advantage of data patterns. Artificialneural networks may take on many forms within the distributed computinginfrastructure 150, such as for example multiple remote computingenvironments or program calls that are accessed when needed by themodules and control systems within the present invention.

Artificial neural networks therefore may perform a critical role inincreasing and improving the efficiency of the present invention by, forexample, heuristically assessing weather conditions at the deep-oceanlocation of the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104 site to learn how to predict when weather conditions are most andleast favorable for operation of a particular renewable resourcecomponent 116, and by heuristically assessing future trends in energycommodity prices to learn how to predict when pricing of commodities ismost and least favorable for operation of the particular renewableresource component 116 and predict a range of prices at whichcommodities are to be both bought and sold, and combining the twoconcepts to further increase efficient performance within the presentinvention.

Heuristic modeling in artificial neural networks can be performed aloneor as part of the many variables and characteristics that comprisemodeling and forecasting for energy commodity prices and meteorologicalconditions. It may also help to identify instances where one or more ofthe modules and control systems operative within the present inventionshould buy, sell, or trade, financial instruments in conjunction withcommodity prices of renewable energy resources 114. Artificial neuralnetworks may therefore be a useful tool, incorporated with othermathematical modeling within the present invention, to predict energycommodity pricing trends and when hedging may be advantageous.

In one example of the use of an artificial neural network, where amicrogrid control system 110 responsible for assessing power usagepatterns to determine a power demand 146 of power customers 112 coupledto a microgrid 108, the microgrid control system 110 may initiate aprogram call to introduce a separate predicted assessment of power usageas part of a closed-loop system of analyzing output signals of themicrogrid control system 110. Such a program call initiates a heuristicassessment of data aggregation reflecting different usage components,usage type, any fluctuation tolerance over the specific period of timeat issue which may influence load variances, and other possiblevariables affecting power demand 146 as noted herein. This effectivelyintroduces a data modeling tool to act as a comparative check of theassessed power demand 146, to ensure accurate data collection andsampling. Artificial neural networks may therefore have significantapplication acting as data modeling checks to ensure, for example, thaterror rates are properly managed.

Energy installations located offshore face the significant problem oftransferring power to the onshore power consumer in an efficient manner.For deep-sea installations, this may be done using an undersea directcurrent transmission link, since long-distance alternating currenttransmission systems suffer losses that are unacceptably high. However,modern electricity grid infrastructure requires substantially all powerin alternating current form for downstream delivery to consumersthereof. Power consumers that do require direct current power rely onsubstations to ensure they are getting the correct form of electricity.Additionally, many wind, hydrokinetic, and solar thermal manufacturersconfigure their apparatuses to generate power in alternating currentform to easily meet the needs of the electricity grid consumers.Providers therefore have the problem of components generating a mix ofAC and DC power, which must be transferred as DC, and then delivered asAC and then rectified later if necessary.

FIG. 5 is a system diagram of components of a power transmission systemin accordance with the various embodiments of the present invention,indicating power outputs of the renewable energy resource components 116connected to an HVDC transmission system 106, which includes a sub-seahigh-voltage direct current link that transfers power generated by themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 to theintelligent power distribution network 102. Power output circuits 142feed into a system of one or more voltage source converters 156 thatensure that each renewable energy resource component 116, and eachapparatus therein, produces a power output in the proper current at acommon or constant voltage level for connection to a common directcurrent bus 158 connected to the HVDC transmission system 106. Allrenewable energy resource components 116 and apparatuses of themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 are directlyconnected to the system of voltage source converters 156 and the commondirect current bus 158 in the HVDC transmission system 206, either inseries or in parallel depending on the power output of each, so that adirect current power output is fed into the voltage source converters156 and the common direct current bus 158 of the HVDC transmissionsystem 106. Where a power output circuit 142 generates AC-based power,it first passes through a rectifier circuit prior to entering a voltagesource converter 156 to ensure all electricity entering the common bus158 is direct current.

The HVDC transmission system 106 also allows each renewable energyresource component 116 to be independently and variably operated becausethe system of voltage source converters 156, together with anyrectifiers needed to convert AC to DC, conduct the necessary poweroutput transformation to ensure consistent and common voltage andcurrent. The HVDC transmission system 106 therefore supports fulloperational variability of the renewable energy resource components 116at the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104 toadjust power capacity 148 as needed to satisfy the power requirement 144relative to all other considerations discussed herein, since designersneed not be primarily concerned with the effects of adjusting powercapacity 148 on voltage levels.

This design allows for scalability of the multi-resource offshorerenewable energy installation 104 to accommodate hundreds and thousandsof apparatuses within each component 116. Traditional and existinginstallations are usually single-resource and are connected toelectricity grids either in close proximity thereto and/or under theassumption that because of the small percentage of its relative share ofthe overall power supply, its size and influence require less stringentattention to connection requirements. However, as electricity gridsrequire more and more power from renewable resources, and multi-resourceinstallations become economically feasible both onshore and at deep sealocations far away from land, the design importance of power electronicsconsiderations increases dramatically.

The voltage source converters 156 allow system designers to reduce thecomplexity of output circuits 142 of each apparatus of each renewableenergy resource component 116, since extra converters in power outputcircuits 142 are not necessary. This allows for much easier independentand variable operation of apparatuses and devices that produce powerfrom renewable energy resources.

HVDC transmission provides direct current electricity to one or moreonshore receiving locations 236 prior to delivery to the intelligentpower distribution network 102. The present invention contemplates thatelectricity can be inverted to AC for those portions of the intelligentpower distribution network 102 needing AC, diverted to selected DC-onlyor DC-specific microgrids 108 or to other DC-only buyers, or transmittedfurther onward in DC form to other receiving locations of otherdownstream intelligent power distribution networks 102 for laterdecision whether to invert to AC or divert for DC-only needs. Theframework of the intelligent power distribution network 102, togetherwith the plurality of microgrids 108, supports both AC and DC-basedelectricity grids and allows power to delivered and consumed in eitherAC or DC, as needed and instructed by each microgrid 108. DC-onlymicrogrids 108 can therefore receive power directly from the offshoreprovider without needing to employ a system of rectifiers and inverters.

Because some components can be configured to generate power in DC, avoltage source converter 156 may not be needed with every power outputcircuit 142 except to regulate any output prior to linking with thecommon direct current bus 158. Since power output levels may bemonitored in conjunction with the transmission control system 230, abypass circuit may be included to circumvent the VSC system 232 wherevoltage levels and direct current output are already compatible withrequirements of the common direct current bus 158.

The HVDC transmission system 106, in addition to monitoring the voltagesource converters 156 and power output circuits 142 of each apparatus toensure compatible current and voltage levels, may also monitor, togetherwith the transmission control system 220, the power output of eachapparatus within each component 116 to determine, as an additionalsystem check, whether an over or under-production of power is beinggenerated for the specific period of time. This adds an additional layerof analysis to ensure a power balance matching power production to powerconsumption is being achieved, and so that a minimal battery storagerequirement at both the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 and the one or more receiving locations 236 of theintelligent power distribution network 102 is maintained. Where anunder-production is detected, the transmission control system 230 iscapable of working with specific modules, controllers and with othercontrol systems 212 to increase power production somewhere among therenewable resource components 116. Similarly in the case of a powerover-production, power production can be decreased in the same manner.

The present invention also contemplates that one or more feedback loopsmay be utilized to either transfer power to a temporary battery forstorage of the excess power, or to the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104 itself to self-power the installation and itsrenewable energy resource components 116. In this regard, the HVDCtransmission system 106 may act as a source of power for themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104, eitherdirectly or from the temporary battery, so that no or very limitedadditional sources of power are needed to power the installation itself.

Excess power production may also be routed to one or more energy storagefacilities that provide backup or alternate sources of power forelectricity grids. Such grid-scale batteries may serve one or morebroader electricity grids or one or more microgrids 108, and may utilizepower over-production from renewable energy resources as an additionallayer of power supply in the event of sudden and/or localized variancesto the amount of power needed, such as in emergency situations. Whereexcess power is transferred to grid-scale energy storage facilities, itmay be routed thereto from either the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104 upon output signals from the transmissioncontrol system 230 or from the intelligent power distribution network102 at the receiving location 236 or some other component thereof.

Power transmission in the present invention can also be configured sothat power is delivered from the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104 to the intelligent power distribution network102 using wireless systems and methods. One example of wireless energytransfer is through electromagnetic radiation, such as with lasers.Power can be transmitted by converting electricity into laser beams thatcan be transmitted using a laser emitter to an antenna at one or morereceiving locations 236 of the intelligent power distribution network102. The antenna receives the laser beam and converts the light todirect current-based power to be delivered and routed to microgrids 108as discussed herein.

The laser beam emitter may be located in a fixed configuration at themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104, or in atemporary configuration that may be deployable as needed. Regardless, itis contemplated that despite possible deep-ocean locations that mayresult in long distances between the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy installation 104 and receiving locations 236, the distance willnot result in a substantial loss of power, and laser beam emitters areto be configured to emit laser beams that will not result in a largeloss over the distance transmitted.

Where a laser beam-based wireless energy transmission is utilized, thetransmission system 106 must account for any power loss that will beencountered with converting power produced at the multi-resourceoffshore renewable energy installation 104 into a laser beam.Accordingly, power outputs of the renewable energy resource components116, and the power output circuits 142, may have to be adjusted, eitherthrough variable operation of the renewable energy resource components116 or through the voltage source converters 156.

The type of power transmission can be managed so that the presentinvention is capable of either by undersea HVDC transmission link, bywireless energy transmission methods as discussed herein, or both. Inone embodiment, the transmission control system 230 performs thefunction of selecting the appropriate transmission method, based oninput data from the intelligent power distribution network 102, by thepower distribution module 200, power generation module 208, powersettlement module 218, or power transmission module 226 of the renewableresource energy management system 100, by the distributed managementsystem 302, or by any another source of such input data. One or more ofthese or other modules may also be configured to manage the task ofdetermining which method of transmission is to be used.

Use of wireless energy transmission may be utilized where a security ormaintenance issue arises with the HVDC transmission system 106. In suchsituations, wireless energy transmission ensures uninterrupted flow ofpower from the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation 104to the intelligent power distribution network 102 and to the electricitygrid infrastructure 300.

FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 are overview perspective and top plan views of thepresent invention, showing a multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation 104 connected to an intelligent power distribution network102 via a transmission system 106. FIG. 6 and FIG. 7 show differentembodiments of the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation104. FIG. 6 shows an embodiment in which multiple floating apparatuses,such as platforms or barges, can produce power from multiple renewableenergy components 116 to an intelligent power distribution network 102.FIG. 7 shows another embodiment in which a mobile, semi-submersibleproduction platform provides support for a number of such multiplefloating apparatuses. The multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallations 104 in FIG. 6 may therefore be coupled in any number to amobile semi-submersible production platform as shown in FIG. 7.Regardless, it is to be understood that numerous configurations of thepresent invention are contemplated and possible to achieve the variousobjectives discussed herein.

The present invention contemplates many other embodiments that arewithin the scope of this disclosure. For example, in one suchembodiment, systems and methods of determining, on one side, an optimalpower demand and on the other side, an optimal supply within anelectricity grid infrastructure. This includes a method of determiningan optimal delivery of power to be generated entirely from renewableresources for an electricity grid infrastructure. Another methodaccording to this embodiment involves determining an optimal generationof power to be delivered to an electricity grid infrastructure. Yetfurther methods involve settling a transfer of power that is entirelygenerated from renewable resources and satisfies a power requirement ofan electricity grid infrastructure, and transmitting an optimal deliveryof power to customers of an electricity grid infrastructure.

In another such embodiment, the present invention discloses a system andmethod of balancing power production with power consumption in anelectricity grid infrastructure. This embodiment includes a method ofadapting renewable resource energy production to energy consumption, amethod of minimizing storage of electricity for delivery to anelectricity grid infrastructure, and a balanced renewable resource-basedenergy management system comprising a source of power generated entirelyfrom renewable energy resources and a consumer of power having apredictable power demand over any given period of time, wherein thepower transmitted satisfies the entire power requirement only fromrenewable energy resources and at an operational level that maximizesthe efficiency of each renewable energy resource.

In yet another embodiment, the present invention discloses a system andmethod of enhancing grid infrastructure security. This embodimentincludes methods of improving electricity grid security and securelydelivering power to an electricity grid infrastructure. The embodimentmay also include a security system for ensuring delivery of power to anelectricity grid infrastructure.

It is to be understood that still other embodiments will be utilized andstructural and functional changes will be made without departing fromthe scope of the present invention. The foregoing descriptions ofembodiments of the present invention have been presented for thepurposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed.Accordingly, many modifications and variations are possible in light ofthe above teachings. It is therefore intended that the scope of theinvention be limited not by this detailed description.

The invention claimed is:
 1. An electricity grid infrastructure,comprising: a multi-resource offshore renewable energy platform having aplurality of renewable energy resource components configured at theplatform's location, the plurality of renewable energy resourcecomponents including a plurality of wind turbines, a plurality ofphotovoltaic modules mounted on at least one tracker mounting system, aplurality of wave turbines, and a plurality of high-temperature solarthermal collectors mounted on at least one tracker mounting systemcoupled thereto, each renewable energy resource component capable ofproducing power from a renewable energy resource; a plurality ofmicrogrids separately coupled to and forming an intelligent powerdistribution network; a distributed load management system at leastconfigured to settle a transfer of a power requirement for a specificperiod of time from the multi-resource offshore renewable energyplatform to be distributed to each microgrid in the plurality ofmicrogrids so that the power requirement is satisfied from powerproduced from a renewable resource; and a transmission system comprisinga sub-surface high voltage direct current transmission link between themulti-resource offshore renewable energy platform and the intelligentpower distribution network over which the power requirement isdelivered, the transmission system including a plurality of voltagesource converters connecting a power output circuit of each wind turbinein the plurality of wind turbines, each photovoltaic module in theplurality of photovoltaic modules, each wave turbine in the plurality ofwave turbines, and each high-temperature solar thermal collector in theplurality of high-temperature solar thermal collectors to a commondirect current bus to provide the high voltage direct currenttransmission link with rectified alternating current power output anddirect current power output regardless of whether a power output circuitproduces alternating current or direct current.
 2. The electricity gridinfrastructure of claim 1, further comprising a privately hosted, shareddistributed computing infrastructure that enables secure communication,processing, and storage of data within an electricity gridinfrastructure comprising the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation, the plurality of microgrids forming the intelligent powerdistribution network, the distributed load management system, and thetransmission system.
 3. The electricity grid infrastructure of claim 2,wherein the plurality of microgrids each have a microgrid control systemconfigured to determine a power need of each power customer coupled,aggregate the power need in a power demand for each microgrid, andcommunicate the power demand to the distributed load management system,and manage a distribution of power to each power customer of eachmicrogrid.
 4. The electricity grid infrastructure of claim 3, whereinthe power need of each customer includes a plurality of components,including a usage amount, a usage type, and a fluctuation component forthe specific period of time.
 5. The electricity grid infrastructure ofclaim 1, wherein the power produced from one or more renewable energyresources is substantially adapted to match the power requirement forthe specific period of time so that energy consumption in theelectricity grid infrastructure is balanced for the specific period oftime.
 6. A method of automating an electricity grid, comprising:determining a power requirement of a plurality of microgrids each havingcoupled thereto one or more power customers who continually communicateto a microgrid control system for each microgrid a power need composedof at least a usage type, a usage amount, and a fluctuation tolerancefor a specific period of time; determining a renewable energy powerproduction capacity of a plurality of renewable energy resourcecomponents at a multi-resource offshore renewable energy platform, eachrenewable energy resource component representing at least one renewableenergy resource and each renewable energy resource component comprisedof an array of apparatuses having an independently and variablyadjustable level of operation in response to, for the specific period oftime, the power requirement and one or more of a commodity priceforecast for each renewable energy resource, a meteorological conditionsforecast for each renewable energy resource, and an operationalavailability of each apparatus, each apparatus continually communicatingan operational availability to one or more renewable energy resourcecontrol systems; producing a power output from one or more of therenewable energy resource components; assessing the power output of eachof the one or more renewable energy resource component and independentlyand variably adjusting the level of operation of each of the one or morerenewable energy resource component to maximize operational efficiencyand to balance the renewable resource energy power production capacityat the multi-resource offshore renewable energy platform to the powerrequirement of the plurality of microgrids, wherein assessing the poweroutput includes integrating a transmission control system coupled to atleast monitor the power output of each of the one or more renewableenergy resource component and compare a combined power output to thepower requirement; and connecting the multi-resource offshore renewableenergy platform with an intelligent power distribution network over ahigh voltage direct current transmission link to transfer a combinedpower output of each renewable energy resource component to a receivinglocation for distribution to the plurality of microgrids.
 7. The methodof claim 6, wherein the determining a power requirement, the determininga renewable energy power production capacity, and assessing the poweroutput further comprise securely communicating, processing and storingdata within a privately hosted, shared distributed computinginfrastructure.
 8. The method of claim 6, further comprising continuallyrequesting commodity price data and meteorological conditions data fromone or more external computing networks configured to monitor trading ofthe commodity prices for each of the renewable energy resources at themulti-resource offshore renewable energy installation and meteorologicalconditions at the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation.9. The method of claim 6, wherein the determining a renewable energypower production capacity of multiple renewable energy resourcecomponents further comprises determining an operational availability ofeach one of a wind turbine in an array of wind turbines forming a windenergy component in the multiple renewable energy resource components, aphotovoltaic module in an array of photovoltaic modules forming a solarenergy component in the multiple renewable energy resource components, awave turbine in an array of wave turbines forming a hydrokinetic energycomponent in the multiple renewable energy resource components, and ahigh temperature solar thermal collector in an array of high temperaturesolar thermal collectors forming a solar thermal energy component in themultiple renewable energy resource components, each wind turbine, eachphotovoltaic module, each wave turbine, and each high temperature solarthermal collector having a controller coupled thereto and responsive tothe renewable resource component control system.
 10. The method of claim6, wherein the connecting the multi-resource offshore renewable energyplatform with an intelligent power distribution network over a highvoltage direct current transmission link further comprises connecting apower output of each wind turbine, each photovoltaic module, each waveturbine, and each high temperature solar thermal collector to aplurality of voltage source converters and a common direct current busover which rectified alternating current-based power output and directcurrent-based power output produce the combined power output, andwherein the assessing the power output further comprises coupling eachpower output to a transmission control.
 11. The method of claim 6,further comprising powering the multi-resource offshore renewable energyinstallation from at least one of a feedback circuit coupled to thecommon direct current bus and configured to supply an excess capacityportion from the combined power output, and an ocean thermal conversionapparatus configured to generate a power output from a differencebetween cool deep water and warm shallow water at an installation site,so that the multi-resource offshore renewable energy installation issubstantially self-powered and requires a minimal amount of powerstorage and a minimal dependence on an onshore source of power.
 12. Arenewable energy-based electricity grid in which power consumption issubstantially balanced to power output, comprising at least one powercustomer having at least one receiving location; an intelligent powerdistribution network to which the at the least one power customer iscoupled on a second end, and the least one receiving location is coupledon a first end, the receiving location configured to direct an amount ofpower to be consumed to the at least one customer in response to aninstruction from a load control module that determines the aggregateamount of power to be consumed for a specific period of time from datacollected from continual assessment of power usage by the at least onepower consumer; a plurality of renewable resource energy-based powersources comprised of one or more components coupled to an offshorerenewable energy platform, each renewable resource energy-based powersource comprised of one or more components capable of independently andvariably producing a power output so that each component operates at amaximum operational efficiency creating a combined power output that issubstantially balanced with the amount of power to be consumed, so thatthe amount of power to be consumer is produced entirely from therenewable resource energy-based power sources and so that a powerstorage requirement at the offshore renewable energy resource platformand at the least one receiving location are minimized for every transferof the combined power output, the maximum operational efficiency of eachcomponent of a renewable resource energy-based power source determinedby a power generation module in response to a plurality of variablesthat at least include, for the specific period of time, a renewableenergy resource commodity price model for each renewable resourceenergy-based power source, a meteorological conditions model at alocation of the offshore renewable energy resource platform for eachrenewable resource energy-based power source, the one or more componentscomprising the plurality of renewable resource energy-based powersources including an array of wind turbines, an array of photovoltaicmodules, an array of wave turbines, and an array of high temperaturesolar thermal collectors; and a high-voltage direct current transmissionsystem having a plurality of voltage source converters coupling poweroutput circuits of each component comprising the renewable resourceenergy-based power sources to a common direct current bus, thetransmission system linking the offshore renewable energy platform andthe at least one receiving location of the intelligent powerdistribution network over which the combined power output istransferred.
 13. The renewable energy-based electricity grid of claim12, wherein the power output circuits of each wind turbine in theplurality of wind turbines, each photovoltaic module in the plurality ofphotovoltaic modules, each wave turbine in the plurality of waveturbines, and each high-temperature solar thermal collector in theplurality of high-temperature solar thermal collectors provide theplurality of voltage source converters and the common direct current buswith rectified alternating current power output and direct current poweroutput regardless of whether each power output circuit producesalternating current or direct current.
 14. The renewable energy-basedelectricity grid of claim 13, further comprising a privately hosted,shared distributed computing infrastructure within which the loadcontrol module securely communicates with the at least one powercustomer to determine the aggregate amount of power to be consumed forthe intelligent power distribution network, and the power generationmodule securely communicates with each wind turbine in the plurality ofwind turbines, each photovoltaic module in the plurality of photovoltaicmodules, each wave turbine in the plurality of wave turbines, and eachhigh-temperature solar thermal collector in the plurality ofhigh-temperature solar thermal collectors to independently and variablygenerate the combined power output so that each operates at the maximumoperational efficiency.
 15. The renewable energy-based electricity gridof claim 13, wherein the array of wave turbines include an array ofsurface turbines, an array of oscillating columns, and an array ofsub-surface turbines.
 16. The renewable energy-based electricity grid ofclaim 13, wherein the array of photovoltaic modules are positioned on atleast one tracker mounting system configured to be variably adjusted sothat the photovoltaic modules are positioned to operate at maximumoperational efficiency relative to generating power from solar energy inresponse to the renewable energy resource commodity price model and themeteorological conditions model for solar energy.
 17. The renewableenergy-based electricity grid of claim 13, wherein the array of hightemperature solar thermal collectors are positioned on at least ontracker mounting system configured to be variably adjusted so that thehigh temperature solar thermal collectors are positioned to operate atmaximum operational efficiency relative to generating power from heatingocean water from solar energy in response to the renewable energyresource commodity price model for solar thermal energy and themeteorological conditions model for solar energy.
 18. The renewableenergy-based electricity grid of claim 13, wherein the array of hightemperature solar thermal collectors include an ocean water intakesystem configured to be adjustable to collect ocean water from avariable depth at which a temperature of ocean water permits a maximumoperational efficiency relative to generating power from heating oceanwater from solar energy in response to the renewable energy resourcecommodity price model for solar thermal energy and the meteorologicalconditions model for solar energy and for ocean water temperature at aparticular depth.
 19. The renewable energy-based electricity grid ofclaim 12, further comprising an ocean thermal conversion apparatusconfigured to generate a power output from a difference between cooldeep water and warm shallow water at the offshore renewable energyinstallation to substantially self-power the offshore renewable energyinstallation so that a minimal amount of power storage and a minimaldependence on an onshore power source are required.
 20. The renewableenergy-based electricity grid of claim 19, wherein the ocean thermalconversion apparatus is configured to be adjustable to collect oceanwater from a variable depth at which the difference between cool deepwater and warm shallow water at the offshore renewable energyinstallation permits a maximum operational efficiency relative toself-powering the offshore renewable energy resource platform.